The bid to streamline and simplify the process of tribal recognition encourages leaders of native groups and bands currently frozen out of federal programs. But they have to contend with existing tribes who fear having to share territory, resources or casino customers.

That's where the acting chairman of the Chinook tribal council sees a potential pitfall. Sam Robinson points to part of the proposal that would allow previously denied tribes like his to repetition for recognition only with consent of affected third parties.

"To appease another tribe would be very difficult for many. On top of that, why should one tribe be able to tell you whether you are Indian or not?" Robinson said.