The Senate passed a resolution on Tuesday to grant state tribal recognition to the Patawomeck (pah-tah-WOH-mic), or Potomac, tribe. The resolution already was passed by the House and takes effect immediately.
The state recognition gives the tribe a seat with the Virginia Council on Indians but does not grant sovereignty.
Newton visited the State Capitol earlier this month to ask for recognition for the tribe. He and Patawomeck Chief Robert Green said the move would validate their identity and help them protect sacred burial grounds.
