PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A series of bills supported by some Native American tribes in South Dakota has struggled to gain traction in the Legislature.
Rep. Shawn Bordeaux, a Democrat from Mission, says it shows a marginalization of Native American people.
A House committee voted down a proposal that had the backing of a majority of the nine tribes in the state. It asked the Legislature to support a request to Congress to repeal the 1863 Dakota Removal Act.
Several other bills addressing Native American communities have gained some progress in the Legislature this year.
No matter the outcome, some elected tribal leaders say it is important to make their voices heard.
