Summary of HR 2388: Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act

Purpose of the Legislation

The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act (HR 2388) aims to take approximately 1,083 acres of federal land in Washington State into trust for the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe. This legislation is intended to support the tribe's housing, cultural, and economic development needs.

Key Provisions

• Land Trust: The bill specifically places 1,082.63 acres of National Park Service (NPS) land into trust for the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe. This land was primarily acquired by the NPS in the 1990s as part of the Elwha River Ecosystems and Fisheries Restoration Act.

• Gaming Restrictions: Under the provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, the land placed into trust will be prohibited from gaming activities.

• Protection of Treaty Rights: The bill explicitly states that it will not affect any existing treaty rights under the Treaty of Point No Point, which was signed in 1855.

Background and Need for Legislation

The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, located on the Olympic Peninsula, has a membership of approximately 984 enrolled members. Historically, the tribe's land has been limited due to treaties and federal policies. The tribe's reservation was formally established following federal recognition in 1968, which included land allocated to tribal families.

The land in question has historical significance and is intended to enhance the tribe's ability to manage resources, support cultural practices, and promote economic development following the removal of the Elwha and Glines Canyon dams, which was completed between 2011 and 2014.

Legislative Process

• Introduced: March 26, 2025, by Rep. Emily Randall (D-WA).
• Committee Actions: The bill was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources and subsequently to the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs.
• Hearings: A hearing was held on May 20, 2025.
• Reporting: The bill was reported favorably by the Committee on Natural Resources on September 15, 2025, and placed on the Union Calendar.

Impact

The passage of HR 2388 is expected to:
- Enhance the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe's capacity for cultural and economic development.
- Provide the tribe with greater control over land management and resources.
- Ensure the protection of treaty rights while facilitating the restoration of ancestral lands.

Related Legislation

HR 2388 has a companion bill, S 1513, which is currently under consideration in the Senate.

This summary provides an overview of HR 2388, detailing its purpose, key provisions, legislative history, and potential impact on the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and its members.