Assistant Secretary Kevin Washburn. Photo from Bureau of Indian Affairs

Officials in Connecticut want the Bureau of Indian Affairs to hold a public meeting on reforms to the federal recognition process.

The BIA held a series of public meetings across the country to discuss the Part 83 reforms. Assistant Secretary Kevin Washburn has extended the public comment period and is holding four more sessions over the phone but officials say that's not enough.

“Mr. Washburn needs to come to Hartford to hear directly from the residents and affected parties in the state,” local officials said in a letter, The New London Day reported.

The proposed rule allows tribes whose petitions were previously rejected to reapply. Connecticut is home to three such groups -- the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation, the Golden Hill Paugussett Tribe and the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation.

Local official fear the tribes, which already enjoy state recognition, will be able to gain federal recognition. But a controversial provision would give the state veto power if it makes it into the final rule.

Get the Story:
Municipal leaders call for Connecticut meeting on proposed changes in federal recognition of tribes (The New London Day 8/12)

Federal Register Notices:
Federal Acknowledgment of American Indian Tribes (July 30, 2014)
Federal Acknowledgment of American Indian Tribes (May 29, 2014)

Relevant Documents:
Proposed Rule | Press Release | Comparison Chart (comparing current rule to proposed rule) | Response to Comments on June 2013 Discussion Draft | Frequently Asked Questions

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