The Bureau of Indian Affairs is "weeks" away from a decision on the federal recognition petition of the Little Shell Chippewa Tribe of Montana, a top official said on Wednesday.

The decision will be made by George Skibine, the acting principal deputy assistant secretary. Larry EchoHawk, the assistant secretary, is recused on Little Shell recognition because the Native American Rights Fund, which is run by his brother, John, is handling the petition.

Skibine told the House Natural Resources Committee that a decision will come in the next few weeks. He asked Congress not to take action on H.R.3120, a bill that would recognize the tribe.

Skibine added that he has only been working on recognition issues at the BIA for about a year.

The Clinton administration issued a preliminary decision in favor of the tribe in May 2000.

Get the Story:
Little Shell recognition bid seeks Congressional help (The Great Falls Tribune 7/16)

Committee Notice:
Full Committee Legislative Hearing On H.R. 2678, H.R. 1358, H.R. 3084, And H.R. 3120 (July 15, 2009)

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