The Bureau of Indian Affairs is proposing to make a final decision on the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe's federal recognition petition by March 2007, The Cape Cod Times reports.

In an affidavit filed in federal court, Lee Fleming, the director of the BIA's Office of Federal Acknowledgment, said staff could began work on the Mashpee petition in October 2005. A preliminary determination would then be ready by April 2006, with a final determination scheduled for March 2007.

The Mashpees have been waiting more than 25 years for an answer. The tribe has been on the "ready" list for consideration for almost 10 years.

Get the Story:
Tribe, bureau nearing a deal (The Cape Cod Times 7/19)

Relevant Links:
Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe - http://mashpeewampanoagtribe.com

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