A federal judge gave approval on Monday to a settlement in the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe's recognition case.

The tribe, based in Massachusetts, and the federal government agreed to stay the case. The Bureau of Indian Affairs will issue a preliminary determination on the tribe's status by March 31, 2006, and a final determination by March 30, 2007.

The Mashpees have been waiting more than 25 years for an answer. The tribe has been on the "ready" list for consideration for almost 10 years.

Get the Story:
Agreement gives tribe quicker consideration for recognition (AP 7/26)

Relevant Links:
Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe - http://mashpeewampanoagtribe.com

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