RICHMOND, Virginia (AP) – The state of Virginia has granted official recognition for the Patawomeck Indians, the tribe of entertainer Wayne Newton.

Newton visited the State Capitol earlier this month to ask for recognition for the tribe.

The Senate passed a resolution on Tuesday to grant state tribal recognition to the Patawomeck, or Potomac, tribe, the Free Lance-Star reports. 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 and Patawomeck Chief Robert Green told lawmakers the move would validate their identity and help them protect sacred burial grounds.