For the second time, the Bureau of Indian Affairs has extended the comment period on a proposed regulation to enroll Western Shoshone tribal members who may be entitled for a share in a $140 million trust fund

A notice published in the Federal Register states that the BIA intended to hold public meetings on the distribution of the fund. But two of the meetings were delayed so comments are being accepted until October 28, 2005.

The regulation would govern how the BIA enrolls people of at least 1/4 Western Shoshone blood to share in the money. No firm deadlines have been set in the enrollment process.

The fund stems from a judgment award for 26 million acres of land the Western Shoshone tribes lost, according to the Indian Claims Commission. An estimated 6,000 people will receive about $20,000 each.

Some Western Shoshone leaders and activists oppose distribution of the fund, saying their land was never legally taken from them.

Get the Notice:
Preparation of Rolls of Indians (Federal Register 9/28)

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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