Newsom Apologizes to Native Tribes for Historical Harms, Then Vetoes Key Tribal Bills
California Governor Gavin Newsom apologized to Native tribes for historical harms but subsequently vetoed two tribal-championed bills: one focused on water resource issues and another aimed at protecting sacred sites. Tribal leaders criticized the vetoes as contradictory to the apology…
San Francisco Oakland San Jose, CA, October 11, 2026 —
California Governor Gavin Newsom recently issued an apology to Native tribes, acknowledging historical harms. However, shortly after the apology, the governor vetoed two significant bills championed by tribal advocates. These legislative efforts were designed to address critical issues concerning tribal communities.
The first vetoed bill focused on water resource issues, an area of significant importance to tribal sovereignty and environmental management of ancestral lands. The second bill aimed to bolster protections for sacred sites, crucial cultural landmarks for Native American tribes across the state. The specific details regarding the content of these bills, beyond their general focus areas, were not provided in the summary.
In response to the vetoes, tribal leaders expressed strong criticism. They characterized the governor’s actions as contradictory to his earlier apology for historical injustices. Leaders stated that the vetoes represent a setback for tribal empowerment, particularly in decision-making processes concerning ancestral lands and water resources, which are central to tribal heritage and well-being. The extent of the perceived blow to tribal empowerment was not detailed.
Conversely, the governor’s decision to veto the bills received support from some business groups. The reasons for this support and the specific business groups involved were not specified in the summary. Information regarding any potential negotiations, alternative solutions proposed by the governor, or the exact timing of these events, beyond occurring after the apology, was not available.
The vetoes come at a time when tribal nations are seeking greater control over their lands, waters, and cultural heritage. The governor’s office has not provided further statements beyond the initial veto messages, and the contractor’s name, the fine amounts, or specific code violations related to these issues were not mentioned in the summary.
Story summarized from the original created by Samantha Kennedy on ww2.kqed.org, see more information here.
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