WASHINGTON, D.C.(KELO)- It’s an attempt to heal a wound that’s been open for over 130 years.

Senators Mike Rounds and John Thune introduced the Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act in Washington.

Congressman Dusty Johnson has done the same in the U-S House.

Senator Rounds spoke in favor of the bill in the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

The measure will help preserve the site for future generations.

Just over a year ago, the Oglala and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribes purchased the 40-acre site of the massacre.

Senator Rounds says the act will help preserve the site for future generations.

Senator Rounds says the act will help them protect it.

The bill passed the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs unanimously this week.