The Bureau of Indian Affairs has delayed a decision on the federal recognition petition of the Little Shell Chippewa Tribe of Montana.

The tribe was supposed to receive an answer by September 25. The new deadline is October 26.

"It gives me a kind of a sick feeling in my stomach," Chairman John Sinclair told The Great Falls Tribune. "I can't understand how it can take so long to make a decision, especially when our people are suffering without it. I'd like to think there might be an end in sight, but there's no guarantee."

Acting principal deputy assistant secretary George Skibine will make the decision because Assistant Secretary Larry EchoHawk is recused on the matter. The tribe has been represented by the Native American Rights Fund, which is run by Larry's brother, John.

Get the Story:
Interior delays Little Shell decision again (The Great Falls Tribune 9/23)

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