Rhode Island · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 7997: AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- RECOGNITION OF NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 7997 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island House on February 27, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- RECOGNITION OF NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES. Primary sponsor: Grace Diaz (Democratic), Scott Slater (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (April 7, 2026): 04/07/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study.
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Recognizes the Seaconke Wampanoag tribe as a Native American Indian tribe for the limited purpose of assisting this tribe in establishing eligibility for federal benefits and privileges.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 2
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grace Diaz | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 11 |
| Scott Slater | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 10 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- 04/07/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
- 04/03/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/07/2026)
- 02/27/2026 Introduced, referred to House State Government & Elections