The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“IN HONOR OF ELOUISE COBELL” mentioning the Department of Interior was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E1902-E1903 on Oct. 24, 2011.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
IN HONOR OF ELOUISE COBELL
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HON. LAURA RICHARDSON
of california
in the house of representatives
Monday, October 24, 2011
Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Elouise Cobell who passed away on Sunday, October 16, 2011. This extraordinary individual led a 15 year fight on behalf of nearly 500,000 Native Americans who had their trusts mismanaged by the federal government.
Elouise Cobell filed a lawsuit in 1996 seeking justice for herself and the half million other American Indians who had their assets mismanaged by the U.S. Department of the Interior. After a lengthy battle in the courts, a $3.4 billion settlement was announced in December 2009.
However, the fight was not over for Elouise Cobell. While a settlement was reached, Congress would still have to authorize payment for the settlement.
I was proud to support the Claims Resolution Act when it came before the House on November 30, 2010. This legislation authorized $3.4 billion to settle the lawsuit, which became known as Cobell v. Salazar. The Claims Resolution also established a $60 million education scholarship fund for Native American children. President Obama signed the Claims Resolution Act into law on December 8, 2010. This law came about because of Elouise Cobell's dedication in pursuing justice for the Native American community.
Mr. Speaker, California is home to over 100 federally recognized tribes. These tribes will reap the benefits of the works of Elouise Cobell.
I am also a proud member of the Native American Caucus. Elouise Cobell's dedication and courage is not just an inspiration to Native Americans, but to all Americans. Her work will not only benefit American Indians now, but also the generations that follow.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating the life of Elouise Cobell.
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