Rep. Rob Simmons (R-Conn.) has withdrawn his support for a bill to overhaul the federal recognition process.

Simmons said he will focus on more "doable" issues, a spokesperson said. "Doable" includes a bill to award $8 million in grants to local governments that oppose tribes seeking recognition.

Simmons dropped his name from a bill introduced by Sens. Joe Lieberman and Christopher Dodd, both Democrats. The bill would make it easier for local governments to oppose tribes seeking recognition.

Get the Story:
Simmons changes BIA reform stance (Gannett News Service 3/11)

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