Three Washington tribes could get another shot at federal recognition under new rules proposed by the Obama administration.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs rejected petitions from the Snohomish Tribe in 2004, the Chinook Nation in 2002 and the Duwamish Tribe in 2001. Under the proposed rules, all three could re-file for recognition, as long as interested parties agree.

“We are pleased by the proposed changes; however, we know that there is still a ways to go in the process,” Snohomish Vice Chair Sue Hall told The Seattle Times.

Public comments are being accepted until August.

Get the Story:
Proposed changes may help tribes get federal recognition (The Seattle Times 6/2)

Federal Register Notice:
Federal Acknowledgment of American Indian Tribes (May 29, 2014)

Relevant Documents:
Proposed Rule | Press Release | Comparison Chart (comparing current rule to proposed rule) | Response to Comments on June 2013 Discussion Draft | Frequently Asked Questions

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