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Bill to define tribal consultation draws split testimony over costs and implementation
Summary
Senate Bill 379 would define state tribal consultation and require agencies to adopt consultation policies and liaisons; proponents argued it clarifies government-to-government practice while forestry and timber industry groups warned the measure is vague, duplicative and could delay projects.
Senate Bill 379, introduced by Sen. Susan Weber, would create a statutory definition of tribal consultation and direct state agencies to adopt concise written consultation policies, designate tribal liaisons, and provide training. The House State Administration Committee heard testimony from tribal representatives, agency officials and industry groups before closing the hearing without a formal committee vote.
Sen. Weber, sponsor, said the bill is modeled on federal definitions and statutes in Washington and Minnesota and is intended to standardize uneven consultation practices across agencies. "This…
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