A bipartisan Senate permitting package, S. 5653, would write a narrower, deadline-driven Section 106 directly into the National Historic Preservation Act. Supporters call it a durable shield for tribal consultation; tribal organizations say it would facilitate “the demolition of our heritage.” The Senate’s first vote is set for Nov. 9.

Congress is debating permitting reform, and the House has passed a major NEPA bill. Separately, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation has voted to rewrite the regulations that make Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act work. Tribal organizations say the draft would shrink protection for sacred places and burial landscapes. The proposal is not yet law.