hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Transfer 860 acres to Pechanga Band, open space, no gaming.
Sen. Padilla (D-CA), Sen. Schiff (D-CA)
Introduced in Senate, awaiting committee action.
This bill proposes to transfer approximately 860 acres of federal land in Riverside County, California, into trust for the Pechanga Band of Indians. The land would become part of the Tribe's reservation but must remain open space and be used only for cultural preservation and wildlife protection, specifically prohibiting any gaming activities. Senators Padilla and Schiff, both Democrats from California, introduced the bill in the Senate, where it currently awaits review by a committee.
Introduced Mar 11, 2026
This bill was introduced in the Senate on March 11, 2026. It has been referred to the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for review. For it to become law, it must pass both the Senate and the House of Representatives, and then be signed by the President.
If this bill passes, approximately 860 acres of land in Riverside County, California, currently managed by the Bureau of Land Management, would be held in trust by the U.S. government for the Pechanga Band of Indians. This change means the Tribe would administer the land as part of their reservation. Importantly, the bill mandates that this specific land must be maintained as open space, preserving archaeological, cultural, and wildlife resources, and explicitly prohibits its use for any type of casino or gaming activities.
Supporters Say
Supporters would emphasize tribal sovereignty, cultural preservation, and environmental protection through designated open space.
Critics Say
Critics might raise general concerns about changes in land jurisdiction, even with the specified restrictions.
Those in favor would highlight the importance of recognizing tribal land rights and the benefits of preserving significant cultural sites and wildlife habitats as permanent open space. The bill's specific conditions, such as prohibiting gaming and requiring open space, aim to address common concerns often raised about tribal land transfers. However, some may still express general reservations about federal land changing to tribal trust status, even with these protective measures in place.