Connecticut's two federally recognized tribes are welcoming the Shinnecock Nation as the New York tribe nears federal recognition.

The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation was recognized by an act of Congress in 1983 and the Mohegan Tribe was recognized through the Bureau of Indian Affairs process in 1994. Both tribes said it's time for the Shinnecock Nation, whose petition has been pending for 30 years, to be considered.

To settle a lawsuit, the BIA agreed to make a preliminary decision on the Shinnecock Nation by December 15. A final decision is expected in mid-2010.

Get the Story:
Tribes mum on Shinnecock casino speculation (The New London Day 6/5)

Recent Court Decision:
Shinnecock Nation v. Kempthorne (September 30, 2008)

Related Stories:
Shinnecock Nation meets with BIA over recognition (6/4)
Shinnecock Nation in DC to press for recognition (6/3)
Editorial: Shinnecock Nation recognition on horizon (6/1)
Blog: Shinnecock Nation eyes ultimate prize (6/1)
Shinnecock Nation open to several casino sites (5/29)
Column: Shinnecock Nation nears a milestone (5/28)
Shinnecock Nation ready to negotiate with state (5/28)
BIA agrees to decision on Shinnecock Nation (5/27)
Shinnecock Nation expects recognition decision (4/6)