A Canadian company seeking to open a gold mine on sacred Quechan Nation land has filed a $50 million claim against the United States.

Glamis Gold Ltd filed the claim under the North American Free Trade Agreement instead of the courts. The company says its right to develop the mine is hindered by California's sacred sites law.

During the Clinton administration, the Interior Department rejected the mine but former Interior solicitor Bill Myers rescinded the decision. California's law was passed to address the situation.

Myers was re-nominated by President Bush for a spot on the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals after being blocked by Democrats last year. Republicans say they have a good chance of confirming him this year.

Get the Story:
California sacred lands law triggers $50 million NAFTA claim (AP 2/23)

Relevant Links:
Glamis - http://www.glamis.com

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