Three Connecticut lawmakers introduced a bill on Wednesday to provide federal funds to fight the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Rep. Nancy Johnson (R-Conn.), sponsor of the bill, claims the BIA is biased towards tribes seeking federal recognition even though the agency has rejected just as many petitioning groups as it has accepted. She wants to provide money to local communities that challenge the BIA's decision in federal court.

The bill would authorize $8 million each year. A community would be reimbursed up to $500,000 for expenses incurred for fighting federal recognition and land claims.

Get the Story:
Bill targets funds for cities appealing BIA recognition (The New Haven Register 2/26)
Funding Is Sought For Towns With Tribal Issues (The New London Day 2/26)

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