Bill to create Bear Butte alcohol buffer zone killed

Wednesday, February 14, 2007  

The South Dakota House Local Government Committee voted 11-2 to kill a bill to create a four-mile buffer zone around sacred Bear Butte.

Sponsors of the measure said it would ensure tribal members who go to Bear Butte to pray and hold ceremonies would be able to practice their religion without interference. They cite the growing number of bars that cater to the annual Sturgis Motorycle Rally.

Critics said the issue should be left to local governments. The Meade County Commission last year approved two liquor licenses for bars near Bear Butte despite tribal and some local opposition.

Get the Story:
Bear Butte no-alcohol zone dies (The Rapid City Journal 2/14)
Panel rejects liquor-free buffer at Bear Butte (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 2/14)

Relevant Links:
Bear Butte International Alliance - http://matopaha.org/wp
Defenders of the Black Hills - http://www.defendblackhills.org

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