Sen. John McCain (R-Arizona) is close to putting a figure in legislation to settle the Cobell trust fund lawsuit, according to Indian Country Today.

McCain, the chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, has a number in mind, said one source, who refused to divulge the amount. A "Washington lawyer-lobbyist" said the figure could run between $6 billion to $8 billion but probably won't reach $10 billion.

Rep. Richard Pombo (R-California) is sponsoring settlement legislation on the House side but hasn't zeroed in on a figure, according to ICT.

Get the Story:
Washington in brief: Cobell settlement legislation adds backing, but settlement number still uncertain [third item] (Indian Country Today 7/5)

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

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