01 — The Text
What.
- Allows Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) to lease their trust lands for up to 99 years, instead of shorter current terms.
- Amends the Long-Term Leasing Act of 1955 to expand leasing authority specifically for these two Massachusetts-based tribes.
- Enables longer-term agreements for housing, business, or other development on tribal reservation and trust lands.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Tribes gain financial flexibility: longer leases attract more investment and generate sustained revenue for tribal governments and members.
- Non-Native businesses/residents seeking long-term leases on tribal land benefit from extended legal certainty.
- Expands tribal sovereignty over their own property decisions and economic development strategies.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Bill passed Senate committee without amendments in May 2026; awaits full Senate floor vote.
- If Senate approves, goes to House for consideration—passage not guaranteed across chambers.
- Contact your senator to weigh in on tribal economic autonomy or land-use concerns before Senate vote.
Legislative History
Actions.
- May 20, 2026 — Committee on Indian Affairs. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.
- Dec 17, 2025 — Committee on Indian Affairs. Hearings held.
- Jan 23, 2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.
- Jan 23, 2025 — Introduced in Senate