Leech Lake Reservation Restoration Amendments Act of 2026

Section 2(b) of the bill adds provisions for the transfer of additional Federal land located in the Chippewa National Forest in Cass County, Minnesota, which records maintained by the Bureau of Indian Affairs show was sold without the unanimous consent of the rightful landowners. This could be seen as positive for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe by returning lands associated with past land issues.

Section 2(b) of the bill allows the Secretary and the Tribe to enter into an agreement to substitute alternative National Forest System land in Cass County, Minnesota, on an acre-for-acre basis to avoid in-holdings and give preference to land adjacent or near existing trust lands and culturally important lands. This provision helps shape land transfers practically and thoughtfully for the Tribe.

Section 2(c) of the bill reaffirms the applicability of section 97A.151 of the Minnesota Statutes and its settlement agreement. This ensures that the hunting, fishing, and recreation rights of non-Tribal members remain unchanged, protecting the outdoor activities of the broader public.

Section 2(d) of the bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Chief of the Forest Service, to provide for public engagement and comment in accordance with applicable laws when implementing the amendments. This ensures that everyday citizens have a voice and can participate in the process.