Johnson, O’Halleran reintroduce the RESPECT Act

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Tom O’Halleran (R-AZ-01), and Tom Cole (R-OK-04) reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral, Repealing Existing Substandard Provisions Encouraging Conciliation with Tribes (RESPECT) Act. The bill repeals outdated and discriminatory laws against Native Americans, including statutes that allowed the forcible relocation of Native American children to boarding schools and the withholding of monies and resources owed to Native American tribes.

 

“It’s no secret, America’s past is flawed,” said Johnson. “We have come a long way as a nation, but there is always room to improve. Repealing these archaic laws is one way we can show Indian Country the dignity and respect it deserves. I’m confident we can get this bill across the finish line this Congress.”

 

“While we can never erase the hundreds of years of persecution, humiliation, and hostility Native peoples faced at the hands of our government, it is our responsibility to address the lasting damage the federal government has inflicted and to work towards repairing the trust of sovereign tribal nations,” said O’Halleran. “I am proud of this bipartisan, bicameral effort to ensure we demonstrate the respect Native Americans deserve by repealing outdated laws that serve as a tragic reminder of generations of pain.”

 

“While dark chapters in our history cannot be erased, I am encouraged that the RESPECT Act would do away with some discriminatory policies toward Native Americans that are still written in federal law,” said Cole. “Though no longer enforced, these laws are a painful reminder of the past suffering and poor treatment experienced by Native Americans. This legislation is a recognition to tribes to right historical wrong and remain vigilant in ensuring these things don’t happen again. I am proud to join with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and in both chambers to introduce this important legislation.”

 

This bill is the House companion to S.789, introduced by Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), and James Lankford (R-OK).

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