The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina holds a meeting tonight to discuss a lobbying contract.

The tribal council signed a contract with Lewin International to push for federal recognition. The deal includes pro-gaming language even though a bill in Congress bars the tribe from engaging in gaming under state or federal law.

The Lumbee Sovereignty Coalition also says the tribe could be forced to pay $35 million to the firm if the tribe backs out of the contract or if the tribe decides not to pursue a casino.

Tonight's meeting is closed to non-tribal members.

Get the Story:
Lumbee leaders set closed meeting on deal with gaming consultant (The Fayetteville Observer 5/7)

Lumbee Recognition Bills:
S.1735 | H.R.31 | H.R.839

Related Stories:
Lumbee group urges chairman to kill recognition contract (4/27)
Editorial: Lumbee leaders gambling with recognition bid (4/19)
Lumbee council fails in vote to rescind lobbying contract (4/16)
Lumbee leaders threatened with recall over lobbying deal (4/13)
Lumbee group plans to discuss contract for recognition bid (4/8)
Editorial: Hope fading fast for Lumbee Tribe's recognition (03/22)
Lumbee Tribe ends relationship with longtime attorney (3/19)
New Lumbee chairman promises to push for recognition (1/15)
Lumbee Tribe chairman aims to boost credibility (11/18)
Lumbee Tribe moves closer to federal recognition (10/23)