Daines, Tester sponsor bill would grant recognition to Little Shell

A bill to grant federal recognition to the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians has been introduced in the United States Senate.

Democratic Sen. Jon Tester and Republican Steve Daines co-sponsored the bill that was introduced Tuesday, the first day of the session.

For years, the tribe has had state recognition, but the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs has balked at granting official recognition.

Most Little Shell are from Montana, especially Great Falls and the Hi-Line.

The tribe is the only one of eight in Montana that does not have a reservation.

“Congress has a trust responsibility to our nation’s tribes, and that responsibility should extend to Montana’s Little Shell,” said Tester, ranking member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee.  “Their federal recognition will strengthen all of Indian Country and help us live up to the promises we’ve made.”

Daines said recognition is  “long overdue.”

“I’m proud to join in this important effort to ensure the federal government provides the Little Shell people with the recognition and support they deserve,” aines said.

Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., said he would introduce similar legislation in the House.

The Interior Department said it would reconsider the decision made by BIA and may eventually grant recognition.

Such action would not be necessary if Congress passes the Tester-Daines legislation.