Cape Fox Land Entitlement Finalization Act of 2025
Summary
The Cape Fox Land Entitlement Finalization Act of 2025 addresses land conveyance issues related to the Cape Fox Village Corporation, representing the Native Village of Saxman, Alaska. It waives certain land selection requirements under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) and facilitates the transfer of approximately 180 acres of federal land within the Tongass National Forest to Cape Fox. The Act also ensures the subsurface estate of this land is conveyed to Sealaska Corporation.
Expected Effects
This act will finalize land entitlements for the Cape Fox Village Corporation, providing them with control over specific lands. Sealaska Corporation will also gain control of subsurface rights. The Act aims to resolve outstanding obligations under ANCSA and promote economic development opportunities for the involved Native corporations.
Potential Benefits
- Resolves land entitlement issues for the Cape Fox Village Corporation, providing greater certainty and control over land resources.
- Facilitates economic development opportunities for the Cape Fox Village Corporation through land ownership.
- Conveys subsurface rights to Sealaska Corporation, potentially enabling resource development.
- Clarifies land ownership within the Tongass National Forest, reducing potential conflicts.
- Fulfills obligations under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA).
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of access to a small portion of National Forest System land due to the easement, though this is intended to be minimal.
- Possible environmental impacts from future development on the conveyed land, depending on the nature and scope of such development.
- Limited direct benefits to individuals outside of the Cape Fox Village Corporation and Sealaska Corporation.
- Potential for disputes over land use or resource extraction between Cape Fox and Sealaska Corporation, although the Act attempts to clarify these rights.
- The act may set a precedent for similar land claims, potentially leading to further adjustments to land ownership in Alaska.
Constitutional Alignment
This Act appears to align with the Property Clause of the US Constitution (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate federal territory. It also aligns with the federal government's trust responsibility to Native American tribes and Alaska Native corporations, which has been recognized through various Supreme Court decisions. There are no apparent conflicts with individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).