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FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 2003

The Bush administration, citing new law, is seeking to limit compensation to two court investigators for the Indian trust fund lawsuit.

In court papers filed on Wednesday, government attorneys said the fiscal year 2003 omnibus appropriations act that was signed into law last month prohibits the investigators from earning more than $285,000 per year. As a result, the government wants to reduce fees owed to special master Alan Balaran and special master-monitor Joseph S. Kieffer III.

The language was inserted by former Rep. Joe Skeen (R-N.M.), who retired last year, and Rep. Norm Dicks (D-Wash.) of the House Interior Appropriations subcommittee. The Department of Interior denied involvement and later said it took no position on the provision.

At the same time, the subcommittee agreed to pay attorney fees for dozens of government officials who are the subject of contempt proceedings. Interiors supports this provision.

Balaran and Kieffer have been highly critical of the Clinton and Bush administrations. At various times throughout the litigation, the government has sought to limit, disqualify or otherwise delay the investigators.

Relevant Documents:
Reduction for Special Master-Monitor (March 19, 2003) | Reduction for Special Master (March 19, 2003)

Relevant Links:
Indian Trust: Cobell v. Norton - http://www.indiantrust.com
Cobell v. Norton, Department of Justice - http://www.usdoj.gov/civil/cases/cobell/index.htm
Indian Trust, Department of Interior - http://www.doi.gov/indiantrust

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