Ruiz Applauds Decision to Review Federal Polices Regarding Development On or Near Tribal Land

Washington, D.C. – Today Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-36), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Indian, Insular and Alaska Native Affairs, issued the following statement in response to a joint statement by the Departments of Interior, Justice, the Army regarding Standing Rock Sioux Tribe v. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers:
 
“This week, I called for a full, investigative report by the GAO into any noncompliance with federal policies that require consultation with tribes before proposed development and construction on or near tribal land. I also urged the Army Corps of Engineers to suspend construction until a full Environmental Impact Study had been released. Today, I am pleased that the Departments of Interior, Justice, and the Army have agreed to conduct a full review of whether or not the federal government is meaningfully consulting with tribes before proceeding on projects that could affect tribal lands. Over the next few months, these departments will be looking into the policies currently in place and whether or not tribes have enough input into decisions that impact their health, sacred lands, and cultural preservation. They will also determine if there are any new legislation that should be proposed to Congress to remedy existing policies. I welcome this review and I look forward to advocating to ensure federal policies are respecting tribal sovereignty.”
 
Dr. Ruiz is traveling to North Dakota this weekend to tour the site of the proposed pipeline, speak with all parties involved, and assess the public health threats to tribal lands and tribal members. You can click here to learn more about his request for a full investigative review.

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