Oklahoma tribe awaits action on environmental damages

WASHINGTON — Members of the Quapaw Tribe of Oklahoma are awaiting action on legislation that would authorize $137.5 million in payments to conclude a 17-year dispute over the federal government’s mismanagement of tribal assets.

All 5,290 citizens of the tribe could potentially receive a lump sum payment of $25,990 each as settlement for damage done to Quapaw lands from lead and zinc mining that started in the late 1800s.

“We've been in contact with individuals in the Department of Justice and Department of Interior, even they have expressed the desire to pursue this route,” Quapaw Secretary-Treasurer Guy Barker said. “Our delegates in Congress, both Senate and House, echo that sentiment. Hopefully, that will expedite the entire process.”

https://indiancountrytoday.com/news/oklahoma-tribe-awaits-action-on-environmental-damages