PRESS RELEASE — WOODVILLE, Texas – Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) issued the following release to highlight statements of support from elected officials and community leaders across Southeast Texas for the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and Alabama-Coushatta Tribes of Texas Equal and Fair Opportunity Settlement Act (H.R. 759), legislation he authored and which unanimously passed the House last week.

“It’s truly an honor to receive such a positive response to the House passage of H.R. 759 from leaders throughout the nine counties of the 36^th Congressional District,” said Babin. “This is the result of incredibly hard work, and I am proud to have our local county and community leaders showing their support for the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas. I know advocacy efforts will only increase as this bill moves over to the U.S. Senate.”

“Congratulations to our neighbors, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas and Naskila, on the passage of H.R. 759. This is a tremendous Economic Development boost to the Tribe and all of East Texas. Our thanks to Dr. Brian Babin and his staff for their dedication to the people of East Texas.” – Polk County Judge Sydney Murphy

“Congratulations on the passage of H.R. 759 for the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe.” – Woodville Mayor Paula Jones

“I am pleased to join all who appreciate the passage of H.R. 759. The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe deserves the honor and respect this legislation provides. Texas will reap the benefit of jobs retained. Families will keep the hope of providing for themselves with honorable work. Thank you, Congressman Babin and your fellow legislators for standing up for what is right!” – Tyler County Judge Jacques L. Blanchette

“The Tyler Co Chamber is Extremely pleased with the recent passing of H.R. 759 by the U.S. House of Representatives sponsored by Rep. Brian Babin. We believe in the fairness this bill brings to our neighbors within the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas as well as the economic growth to this region of East Texas. We appreciate the long struggle the Tribe has endured for this vital cause, as well as Dr. Babin’s willingness to stand with the Tribe in Washington to ensure the people of Polk and Tyler Counties have good paying jobs and our residents don’t have to leave home to find work. This is good for the Tribe – this is good for all of us!” – President of Tyler County Chamber of Commerce LeAnn Monk

“On behalf of the Chamber, we are excited to hear that H.R. 759 passed.” – President/CEO Livingston-Polk County Chamber of Commerce Janet Wiggins

“Congratulations to the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe on the passage of H.R. 759, which will allow their citizens to receive fair and equitable treatment when developing economic advancements in their own community. The Alabama-Coushatta have been respected allies and friends to Jasper County since the days when Texas was still a young Republic, and we look forward to a future bond with them that will be just as strong. Our thanks go out to Congressman Babin for his leadership and for fighting for the rights of Texans to improve the quality of life and economic strength within their own communities.” – Jasper County Judge Mark Allen

“I am encouraged to hear of H.R. 759’s passage and thankful for what Naskila is doing for our area. I hope it continues to grow, and I am excited to see the greater impact it will have on our local economy.” – Jasper Economic Development Cooperation CEO Eddie Hopkins

“On behalf of Hardin County, I am pleased to learn of the passage of H.R. 759 and we commend Congressman Babin for leading the charge on this important Legislation. Congratulations to the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas on this vital win for your community and for the employees of Naskila Gaming. We look forward to our continued strong relationship with our neighbors, who provide jobs to citizens of Hardin County, we appreciate all that you do to continue to boost the economy of East Texas.” – Hardin County Judge Wayne McDaniel

“DETCOG congratulates Congressman Babin and thanks him for his work in support of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe. The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe is an important part of the history, culture, and economy of Deep East Texas. The DETCOG Board of Directors is on the record in support of fair and equal treatment for the Tribe. Our position is that the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe should enjoy the same opportunities as other federally recognized Tribes. We applaud Congressman Babin for his efforts to achieve this.” – Executive Director Deep East Texas Council of Governments and Economic Development District (DETCOG) Lonnie Hunt

VIDEO: House passes Babin’s Alabama-Coushatta Fairness Bill