Shinnecock Tribe Moves Close to U.S. Recognition

[cal04]

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/16/nyregion/16tribe.html?_r=1

The Obama administration said Tuesday that the Shinnecock Indian Nation of Long Island had met the necessary criteria for federal recognition, signaling the end of a more than 30-year court battle and clearing a path for the tribe to build a casino in New York City or its suburbs.

The decision all but assures the tribe’s federal recognition, though there is still a required public comment period that will take place before final recognition is granted.

“The Shinnecock petitioner has met all seven mandatory criteria for federal acknowledgment,” the Interior Department said in a statement issued Tuesday afternoon.

The announcement culminates an arduous effort by the tribe, which has paid at least $1.74 million to seven different state and federal lobbying firms since 2005 as part of the recognition effort, according to public records.

Recognition for the Shinnecocks will have significant implications for the Hamptons, where the tribe is based.

[Clio the Leo]

1. Good news! NT

[USA_1]

2. A Question ...

NYS has a college campus on the Shinnecock rez. If the State recognized the tribe, why hasn't the Federal government done the same up to now??