Seeking Compromise, Robbins Puts Hold on Indian Artifacts Bill

State Sen. Alan Robbins (D-Van Nuys) said Monday that he has decided to wait until next month to seek Assembly approval of his bill to provide $975,000 to preserve Indian artifacts uncovered at “The Lost Village of Encino.”

On the heels of opposition voiced by the state Native American Heritage Commission over the weekend, Robbins said he is willing to work out a compromise with Indian groups.

Instead of having the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee consider the proposal as scheduled on Monday, Robbins delayed action until the Legislature returns from its summer recess in mid-August.

The measure was approved by the Senate, 29-2, in June. But members of the Native American panel said they were worried that the proposal could take money away from other Indian projects.