A small tribe of Indians based in Long Island’s Hamptons region is awaiting word on whether the federal government will give it formal recognition.
An Indian casino (AP)
A favorable decision could lead the Shinnecock Indians to eventually open an Indian-run casino.
Their leaders tried to open a casino on tribal land in Southampton in 2003. They were told they first need the Bureau of Indian Affairs to formally recognize the Shinnecock as a tribe before any discussions about a casino can begin.
BIA officials have been reviewing ancestral records and other historical documents.
The agency said last spring it expected a preliminary decision by Tuesday.
If they win that round, final approval could come next spring.
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.
