Alaska Gov. Frank Murkowski (R) says Alaska tribes are confused about a letter he sent to the Environmental Protection Agency.

But the letter is pretty clear in the eyes of tribal leaders. Murkowski questioned why the EPA is awarding capacity building grants to tribes, whom he said lack territorial jurisdiction in the state.

"EPA encouragement of capacity building in these areas runs counter to the law and undermines state authority," Murkowski said. "Therefore, EPA should discontinue funding of capacity building programs that are designed to allow tribal governments to take over state responsibilities relating to environmental quality."

Tribal leaders said Murkowski was trying to cut off $13.5 million in grants they have received to improve the environment in rural Alaska. They are all the more concerned due to recent attacks on their federally-recognized status.

Murkowski now says he will write another letter to the EPA, clarifying that he doesn't want to end the tribal grants.

Get the Story:
Governor to clarify stance in EPA letter (The Anchorage Daily News 2/7)

Get the Letter:
Gov. Murkowski to EPA (January 7, 2004)

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