CSKT judge won't force distribution of trust settlement

Friday, January 17, 2014  

A judge for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of Montana has dismissed a lawsuit that sought the distribution of the remainder of a $150 million trust fund settlement on a per capita basis.

In September 2012, the tribe distributed half of the settlement. The per cap came to $10,000 for each of the tribe's 7,580 members.

A group called the People’s Voice submitted a petition calling for a vote to distribute the remainder but tribal leaders rejected the proposal. Judge BJ Jones said tribal members did not have a legal right to the proceeds.

The tribe has invested the remainder of the settlement.

Get the Story:
CSKT judge dismisses lawsuit on Salazar settlement (The Missoulian 1/17)

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes consider per cap vote (11/20)