VANCOUVER -- The Chinook tribe, whose people have lived in the lower Columbia region long before European settlers' arrival, would achieve long-sought federal recognition under a bill introduced today by Rep. Brian Baird, D-Wash.
Under the Chinook Nation Restoration Act, the tribe would renounce claims to land that is currently privately owned, although tribal members are free to pursue its purchase if the current owner is willing to sell.
In exchange, the Chinook Nation would become eligible for federal funding to establish a reservation, improve health care and housing resources, and gain access to services through the Indian Health Services and Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The act would not provide the tribe with special hunting and fishing rights exceeding those of other Washington citizens.
"The history of the Northwest cannot be told without the Chinook People," Ray Gardner, Chinook Tribal Council chairman, said in a news release.
Baird said: "The Chinook People have agreed to a remarkable compromise, and in return, all the federal government has to do is agree to the obvious: that the Chinook Nation exists and that it should be recognized."
The Chinook nearly achieved federal recognition in 1851 and 2001.
Late in its administration, the Clinton White House approved the Chinook's recognition. That was rescinded by the Bush administration before the recognition process could be completed.
-- Allan Brettman; firstname.lastname@example.org