Led by the efforts of Congressman Ryan Zinke, the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Indian, Insular and Alaska Native Affairs held the first hearing on federal recognition of the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians of Montana in the last six years. The State of Montana recognized the Little Shell Tribe in 2000; however they have been seeking federal recognition for more than 100 years.

“The Little Shell Tribe has been waiting for far too long for Washington to realize what the people of Montana have known all along,” said Rep. Ryan Zinke. “For the people of the Little Shell, federal recognition means more than just a government status – it means sovereignty, greater opportunity and rights to the land the tribe has built their families and communities on for generations. Federal recognition of the Little Shell was my first legislation in the House, and the entire Montana Congressional delegation is dedicated to this effort. I have been working with Senators Steve Daines and Jon Tester to advance this important legislation since January. Today I’m happy to report we are one step closer to finally being able to deliver economic empowerment and federal recognition to the Little Shell Tribe.”

“We appreciate all that Congressman Zinke has done to support us by introducing H.R. 286,” said Gerald Gray, Chairman of the Little Shell Tribal Council. “He has tirelessly fought for our people and to restore our federal recognition.  We hope that Congress will listen to the strong voices in the State of Montana and pass Mr. Zinke’s legislation.”

In March, The U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee advanced the legislation out of committee by a voice vote led by Montana U.S. Senator Steve Daines. Zinke entered a statement from Senator Daines into the Congressional Record during the hearing.

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