HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 78

(By Delegates Caputo (By Request), Manchin and Prunty)

[Introduced March 6, 2002; referred to the

Committee on Rules.]


Requesting the Committee on Government and Finance to conduct a study on the establishment of a State Commission on Indian Affairs in relation to the recognition of the rights of Native American tribes, bands, groups and clans who are indigenous to the State of West Virginia.

Whereas, Currently, West Virginia does not formally recognize indigenous Native American tribes within the State, but has historically been the homeland of Native American tribes and groups; and
Whereas, West Virginia has a duty and responsibility to foster the awareness, understanding and appreciation of the many and varied contributions to the quality of life made by its diverse ethnic communities, including Native Americans; and
Whereas, It would be in the public interest for West Virginia and its citizens to identify and perpetuate the diverse culture and ethnic heritage of the State and to promote greater awareness and understanding for the education, inspiration and the general public welfare of its People and it would be the shared interest of West Virginia and groups in West Virginia to recognize groups indigenous to the State and certify Native American Organizations; and
Whereas, Recognition of these Indian tribes by West Virginia would correct an historical oversight and be of assistance to Indian people in obtaining federal funds set aside for Native Americans; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the establishment of a Commission on Indian Affairs relating to the recognition of the rights of Native American tribes, bands, groups and clans, who are indigenous to the State of West Virginia. The purpose of the Commission is, but not limited to, the gathering of information, making studies and research into Indian tribes, studying the status of all Indian groups, tribes and communities in the State and assist them in obtaining recognition from the federal government and applying for available grants and funding for indigenous Native Americans in West Virginia; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2003, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.