South OC Times

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation authored by Congressman Darrell Issa to place 172 acres of land in East County, San Diego into tribal trust for the Jamul Indian Village. The bill is now headed to President Biden's desk for signing.

"The Jamul Indian Village has sought for years to bring tribal members back onto their ancestral land – so they can raise their families, carry forward their culture, and add to their history," said Rep. Issa. "This is the right thing to do, and it empowers not government, but individuals, to take new charge and best care of their lives. This Fee-to-Trust bill provides that opportunity, securing Jamul’s land, preserving its sacred sites, and protecting Kumeyaay traditions for generations to come."

The land includes residential areas for homes and council buildings, an ancestral cemetery, and the tribe’s only road for transportation.

Senator Padilla expressed his support: "After years of sacrifice in their efforts to achieve self-determination, the Jamul Indian Village will finally get the true homeland they deserve to preserve their sacred history. I am honored to have worked alongside the Jamul Indian Village and Congressman Issa."

Rep. Juan Vargas also commented on this legislative achievement: "For years, the Jamul Indian Village has been fighting to restore their homeland and rebuild their communities. Today, we mark a milestone in these efforts as the Jamul Indian Village Land Transfer Act passes Congress."

The bill awaits presidential approval before becoming law.