The Challenge of Obtaining Signatures on Oil and Gas Leases for Indian Lands, 1973-01-01 - 1973-12-31

Item — Box: 26, Folder: 14

Identifier: CAC_CC_009_1_26_14_0012

Staff Only

Mr. Marshall L. Austin is writing to Congressman John N. "Happy" Camp about the difficulties he is facing in obtaining signatures from Indian landowners for oil and gas leases. He believes that the Bureau of Indian Affairs should be allowed to sign the leases on behalf of the Indian owners to streamline the process. The Bureau of Indian Affairs, represented by Mr. Hans Walker, Jr., explains that the current procedure has been in place for decades and that it is the responsibility of successful bidders to obtain the necessary signatures. The Bureau also mentions that Mr. Austin's proposal goes against the government's policy of granting self-determination to Indians.