House Approves Federal Land Transfer to Pit River Tribe
Legislation would return 580 acres in Northeastern California known as the “Four Corners”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation approving the transfer of approximately 580 acres of federally owned land in Northeastern California to the Pit River Tribe.
The bill, H.R. 2400, known as the Pit River Land Transfer Act, authorizes the conveyance of land locally referred to as the “Four Corners,” located between Burney and Fall River Mills. The area is widely regarded as a cultural, historical, and spiritual landmark for the Pit River Tribe, whose ancestral ties to the land span more than 10,000 years.
Supporters of the legislation say the transfer will allow the tribe to pursue long-term stewardship of the land, including the potential development of an interpretive center designed to educate the public and preserve tribal history.
“This bill restores tribal homelands and enhances both tribal sovereignty and local stewardship,” said Rep. Bruce Westerman, chair of the House Natural Resources Committee, following the House vote.
Tribal leaders described the legislation as a significant step toward addressing generations of displacement and restoring control over ancestral lands.
“For countless generations, the Pit River people have lived in relationship with these lands—caring for them, guided by the teachings of our ancestors. The return of these homelands is not merely about acres and boundaries; it is about restoring a sacred trust that has endured through hardship and dispossession,” said Yatch Bamford, Chairman of the Pit River Tribe. “We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman LaMalfa for championing this legislation and for his steadfast dedication to seeing the Pit River Land Transfer Act advance through the House. His leadership honors our sovereignty and supports justice long overdue for our people. This moment renews our hope and strengthens our ability to preserve our culture and traditions for generations to come.”
The legislation was introduced by Rep. Doug LaMalfa, who represents California’s First Congressional District. In remarks delivered during House debate, LaMalfa said the bill reflects decades of effort by the tribe to reclaim the land through legal and administrative processes.
“For decades, the Pit River Tribe has pursued every legal and administrative avenue to acquire this land, facing endless bureaucratic delays,” LaMalfa said. “Transferring the Four Corners to them will allow the tribe to build an interpretive center, educate the public on their history, and honor their ancestral past. I am pleased to see the House pass this legislation as a step towards strengthening stewardship, land management, and tribal self-determination.”
The Pit River Land Transfer Act now advances in the legislative process for further consideration before it can become law.
