The Yurok Tribe of California has settled its trust fund lawsuit for $27.5 million.

Tribal members will now decide what to do with the money. A referendum proposes using 63 percent for a per capita payment, with the remaining 37 percent to be invested in economic development.

”This plan is designed to balance the present needs of the tribal membership and our obligation to create a brighter future for generations of Yurok people,” Chairman Thomas O'Rourke Sr., said in a press release. “The tribal council carefully considered this decision, which has the potential to change the course of Yurok history.”

If the plan is approved, the per capita will be distributed as follows: $4,500 for members 60 years old or older, $3,500 for members 18 years old or older but less than 60 years old, and $1,000 for members below the age of 18.

The referendum is being conducted by mail.

Get the Story:
Yurok tribal members to share $27.5 million settlement (The Daily Triplicate 1/15)