hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Removes federal restrictions on Catawba tribal membership.
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC).
Introduced in Senate, referred to Indian Affairs Committee.
This bill amends the 1993 Catawba Indian Tribe Land Claims Settlement Act. Currently, only lineal descendants of the final base roll with continuous political relations can enroll. The bill removes that requirement, letting the tribe set its own membership rules. Senator Graham and Senator Scott represent South Carolina, where the Catawba Nation is located. The bill is in the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs; it has not been voted on yet.
Introduced Feb 12, 2026
This bill is under review by a committee. The committee holds hearings, gathers testimony from experts and stakeholders, and may propose amendments. If the committee votes to advance it, the bill moves to the full chamber for debate and a vote.
The bill gives the Catawba Nation full authority to determine who qualifies as a member. Currently, federal law requires proof of descent from the final roll and ongoing political ties. Removing that could allow the tribe to adopt broader or more flexible criteria. This change only affects the Catawba Nation, not other tribes. It does not affect non-tribal members.
Supporters Say
Supporters say the tribe should have self-determination over its membership, like other federally recognized tribes.
Critics Say
Critics argue removing federal standards could lead to enrollment disputes or weaken tribal identity.
Supporters, including the bill's sponsors, emphasize tribal sovereignty. Critics worry that without federal guardrails, membership could become politicized. Some tribal members may prefer the existing blood quantum requirement to preserve cultural continuity. No official opposition statements are recorded.