A5295
An act to amend the Indian Law — 2025-06-05 · Calendar #1436
The Senate passed Assembly Bill 5295, which would reinstate recognition of the Montaukett Nation, by a vote of 59-1. The bill, sponsored by Assemblymember Schiavoni, addresses a 1920 court decision that stripped the Montaukett Nation of recognition they had held for hundreds of years. Sen. Palumbo, who explained his affirmative vote, characterized the original court decision as racist and unjustified. The bill has been passed by the Legislature multiple times but has been vetoed by both the prior and current Governor. Palumbo called on the Governor's office to engage with the Legislature and the Nation to resolve outstanding concerns. Only Sen. Rhoads voted against the measure.
PASSED
Ayes: 59
· Nays: 1
Debate Summary
Sen. Palumbo spoke in support of the bill, explaining that it would reinstate recognition of the Montaukett Nation, which was stripped of recognition by a 1920 Suffolk County Supreme Court decision that Palumbo characterized as racist and unjustified. Palumbo noted the bill has been passed by the Legislature multiple times but vetoed by both the prior and current Governor. He called on the Governor's office to work with the Legislature and the Nation to resolve outstanding concerns and restore the Nation's dignity and recognition.
Recorded Votes
Recorded votes are predominantly dissenting (nay) votes captured from roll call records.
| Senator | Vote | Party |
|---|---|---|
| Rhoads | nay | Republican |