"Native American plaintiffs in a lengthy, class-action suit against the federal government say they're excited at the prospect of reaching a settlement with the new Interior Secretary, Ken Salazar. The Indian trust lawsuit (first named Cobell v. Norton, now Cobell v. Salazar) has simmered for thirteen years, and represents half a million Native Americans.

One is a Wisconsin man, who's eager to put the matter to rest.

Tom Maulson is a Lac du Flambeau tribal member and one of the original six plaintiffs in the case. Maulson and others claim the U.S Interior Department has mishandled billions of dollars in royalties owed to native people since 1887."

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Hopes Run High for Trust Suit Settlement with Obama Administration (Wisconsin Public Radio 2/16)
AUDIO: RealPlayer (Wisconsin Public Radio 2/16)