Politics & Government
Blumenthal, Local Leaders, Teaming Up Again on Indian Recognition Issue
The officials are concerned about a new U.S. Interior Department proposal that could make it easier for previously denied Indian groups to earn federal recognition, a step that could lead to more casino development in Connecticut.
Local leaders from Ledyard, North Stonington and Preston have joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal to oppose the Interior Department's new proposal on federal recognition for Indian tribes, the Indian Country Today Media Network reports.
The proposal would change the requirements tribes must meet to earn federal recognition, a status that could open the door for more casinos in the state.
In addition, several groups who were denied federal recognition in 2005, such as the Eastern Pequots and the Schaghticokes, could reapply if the new proposal takes effect.
Ledyard mayor John Rodolico, North Stonington First Selectman Nicholas Mullane and Preston First Selectman Robert Congdon penned a letter asking to extend the proposal's timeframe for public comment and noted that the changes could have “dramatic consequences for our towns and the state of Connecticut," the Indian Country Today article reports.
Blumenthal, who nearly 10 years ago led a long and ultimately successful campaign to block Connecticut Indian groups from winning federal recognition, is again questioning the federal government's actions on Indian recognition rules.
The public comment period on the proposed new rules ends on August 16.
Read the full story on Indian Country Today Media Network.
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