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Connecticut Tribes Face Opposition

CONNECTICUT – As reported by the Connecticut Day: "The two tribes most likely to enter Connecticut's gaming market next are going about their business as an anti-casino road show works its way through western Connecticut and lawmakers renew their calls to reform the federal recognition process.

"The Eastern Pequots, who were recognized in June 2002 but have been unable to enjoy the privileges of acknowledgment while awaiting the outcome of a legal appeal, have asked that their case be moved to the top of the Interior Board of Indian Appeal's list.

"Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, the towns of Ledyard, Preston and North Stonington and a rival faction of Eastern Pequots — the Rhode-Island based Wiquapaugs — appealed the decision to the IBIA.

"…The Schaghticoke Tribal Nation, recognized by the BIA on Jan. 29, also is hoping an appeal of its recognition, which Blumenthal has promised, would be dispatched quickly.

"…The favorable decision has renewed the furor that followed the Eastern Pequots' recognition. The Connecticut Alliance Against Casino Expansion is holding town meetings this week in Danbury, Ridgefield and Kent to rally opposition to a casino, and U.S. Rep. Christopher Shays, R-4th District, is arranging for the Committee on Government Reform, of which he is vice chairman, to schedule a hearing on federal recognition.

"Shays has proposed that tribes be required to disclose their financial backers and lobbyists during the acknowledgment process…"

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