The city of Great Falls, Montana, is going to pass a resolution to support recognition for the Little Shell Chippewa Tribe, the mayor said.

The tribe received a favorable preliminary determination in May 2000. Vice chairman James Parker Shield said a six-month comment period has turned into six years.

Gov. Brian Schweitzer (D) recently signed a resolution to recognize the tribe. Other tribes in the state back the Little Shell Chippewas.

Rep. Denny Rehberg (R) has introduced a bill to recognize the tribe but the House Resources Committee is waiting on a response from the Interior Department. Shield said the bill will have to be re-introduced next year.

Get the Story:
Mayor pledges city's support of tribe's quest for recognition (The Great falls Tribune 11/5)

Recognition Bill:
Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians Restoration Act (H.R.5804)

Relevant Links:
Little Shell Tribe - http://www.littleshelltribe.com

Related Stories:
Bill introduced to recognize Little Shell Tribe (07/14)
County may lease land to Little Shell Chippewa Tribe (12/12)
County backs Little Shell Chippewa Tribe (11/09)
Little Shell Tribe seeks support for recognition bid (11/2)
Little Shell Tribe seeks federal recognition through bill (07/04)
Little Shell Tribe seeks support for recognition bid (07/07)
Little Shell Tribe sees delay in recognition (05/27)
Mont. court recognizes tribe through common law (05/01)
Little Shell case could help federal recognition (05/01)
Little Shell finding a departure (08/16)
Decisions put Gover in the middle (08/16)