Public hearings on five tribal land claim settlements are being titled to favor supporters of the deals, critics say.

The state Legislature is holding the hearings but oral testimony is limited to invited witnesses. So far the list includes representatives of Gov. George Pataki (R), the tribes, casino developers and construction unions.

People affected by the settlement say that's unfair. Among those wanting to testify is the Upstate Citizens for Equality, a group which opposes treaty rights and the land claims.

Get the Story:
Come talk -- if you were invited: Land claim hearing format criticized (The Finger Lake Times 2/24)
Lawmakers plan more hearings on proposal to allow 5 casinos (The Middletown Times Herald-Record 2/24)

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