The Shinnecock Nation.of New York is anxiously awaiting a decision on its petition for federal recognition.

As part of a settlement, the Bureau of Indian Affairs said it will make a preliminary ruling by December 15. A final decision is expected in mid-2010.

The tribe filed its petition in 1978 and was one of the first to start the BIA recognition process. The tribe is recognized by the state of New York and has a state-recognized reservation.

Get the Story:
Shinnecocks await word on federal recognition (Newsday 12/9)
Sources: Thousands inquire into Shinnecock membership (Newsday 12/9)

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

Related Stories:
New York governor backs Shinnecock Nation (9/25)
Interview: Shinnecock Nation and federal recognition (06/12)
Economist: Recognition nears for Shinnecock Nation (6/11)
Connecticut tribes support Shinnecock recognition (6/5)
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)