In the 115th Congress, the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian Affairs will be led by California Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-1st) and Norma Torres (D-35th). Chairman LaMalfa replaces Rep. Don Young (R-AK) as Chairman of the Subcommittee. Ranking Member Torres replaces Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-36th) as the top Democrat on the Subcommittee.
Ruiz’s leadership role on the Subcommittee will be her first senior role on a Subcommittee as she moves into her second term in office. Last year, the Committee focused on federal recognition of Indian Tribes and often clashed with the Obama Administration over the proper role of the executive branch in Indian Affairs. The tone is certain to change as a Republican Administration takes control, however no details have emerged on priorities for the new Administration.