More than 100 Western Shoshones are being threatened with disenrollment from the Te-Moak Tribe of Nevada.

The tribe is combing through its records to ensure that everyone qualifies for membership. "Over the years, some slippage occurred. Some people were brought into the tribe when the criteria was not followed," tribal manager Elwood Mose told The Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Critics say the timing of the endeavor is suspicious. It comes as the Bureau of Indian Affairs is drawing up a list to determine who will receive a share of a $140 million trust fund approved by Congress last year.

"If they can successfully kick people out, that's going to increase their per capita disbursement," said John Wells, whose family members have received letters.

The tribe says there is no connection as the BIA will determine who gets the money based on 1/4 Western Shoshone blood. The per capita payment could be as high as $20,000 depending on how many are on the list.

Get the Story:
Tribe questions memberships (The Las Vegas Review-Journal 2/13)

Relevant Links:
Western Shoshone Defense Project - http://www.wsdp.org

Western Shoshone Claims Distribution Act:
Bill Report | H.R.884 | S.618

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