Tribal governments could soon participate in the federal government’s disposal process for surplus public buildings.
U.S. Reps. Dusty Johnson, R-SD, and Sharice Davids, D-KS, have introduced the GSA Disposal Process Tribal Parity Act.
Under the act, when the federal government determines they no longer need a public building, they can offer it to tribal, state, and local governments at or below market value if the building is used for a specified public benefit. That includes uses for law enforcement, emergency management, education, highways or public airports.
Currently, tribal governments are not included in this process. They would, instead, have to wait until the building becomes available for public sale.
"There is a great need for public facilities for tribes, whether that is for schools, housing, or law enforcement needs,” said Johnson. “This bill will correct an oversight and allow tribal governments to have the same access to the disposal process as states and local governments, helping them save money and meet their facility needs."
The Crow Creek, Standing Rock, and Lower Brule Sioux Tribes support the legislation.
"The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe is very thankful for the GSA Disposal Process Tribal Parity Act that will benefit Tribes with much needed surplus equipment that will immediately make an impact in tribal communities," said Lower Brule Sioux Tribe Chairman Clyde J.R. Estes.
U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla, D-CA, and James Lankford, R-OK, introduced identical legislation in the Senate earlier this year.