"It's been this way since 1956. Hope runs high, then disappointment sets in.

This year, the tribe was as close as it's ever been to the full federal recognition that would bring hundreds of millions of dollars in federal assistance to the Lumbees. A recognition bill passed the House of representatives last year and won approval from key Senate committees this year. It had the support of the president, the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs and both of this state's senators.

But when Congress passed an interim spending bill last week and members went home to campaign, it probably marked the bill's end. Tribal leaders say they remain optimistic, but most informed observers in Washington say the bill is likely doomed. Congress returns for a lame-duck session after the election, but there isn't much hope of finding a way around the "hold" unnamed senators have placed on the bill."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Again - Another Lumbee recognition bill runs aground (The Fayetteville Observer 10/7)

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

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