S. 236 · On the floor · Native Americans

A bill to amend the Act of August 9, 1955 (commonly known as the "Long-Term Leasing Act"), to authorize leases of up to 99 years for land in the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Reservation and land held in trust for the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah), and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Edward J. Markey (D-MA)

What it does

• Amend the Long-Term Leasing Act to permit the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe to lease reservation land for up to 99 years.
• Amend the Long-Term Leasing Act to permit the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) to lease trust land for up to 99 years.
• Enable tribes to generate revenue and pursue economic development through long-term leasing of reservation and trust lands.

Official summary

This bill authorizes the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) to lease their land held in trust for a term of up to 99 years. Both tribes are located in Massachusetts.

Latest action

Sep 14, 2026: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 553.

Committee: Senate Indian Affairs