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OF 3 UNITED STATES CREDEIVED file DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR JUL - 8 1958 O.F. OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY XOFY CHIRAL FILES Morch 3. the WASHINGTON 25, D.C. 147-D July 4, 1958 MEMORANDUM To: Governor Sherman Adams Assistant to the President From: Ted Stevens Subject: Alaska Statehood Act This is sent to you at the request of Secre- Temorandum tary Seaton. 1. Digest of enrolled statehood bill--H. R. 7999: XOF147.D.1 A. Section 10 authorizes the President of the United States to establish one or more special national defense withdrawals, at any time, within an area north and west of a line previously described to you. The establishment of any such withdrawals will vest sole executive, legislative, and judicial power--or exclusive jurisdiction--in the United States. Section 10 preserves for quali- fied voters the right to vote in any state or local election. Nothinlin section 10 in any way limits any authority otherwise vested in the President or Congress. B. The State may not select any lands in the area north and west of the line described in section 10 without the approval of the President. C. Upon proclamation of the President, explained below, Alaska is admitted upon equal footing with the other States. The Constitution of Alaska is ratified and confirmed. D. As a compact with the United States, the State and its people disclaim all right and title to any lands not granted or confirmed to the State. Indian claims are protected but nothing in the Act is intended to enlarge or impair any claim against the United States or to recognize or deny the validity of any Indian claim.