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Cole Statement on Chickasaw and Choctaw Trust Settlement

October 6, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma, praised an announcement made today by the Department of Interior along with the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations. Under the $186 million total settlement to resolve trust claims, the Chickasaw Nation will receive $46.5 million and the Choctaw Nation will receive $139.5 million.

"Without question, this is a significant announcement for Indian Country and one for which Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby, Choctaw Nation Principal Chief Gary Batton and former Principal Chief Gregory Pyle should be proud," said Cole. "Not only does the historic trust settlement further repair what has long been a broken relationship between all of Indian Country and the federal government, but it serves as a beacon of hope for other tribes across the nation that have suffered similar neglect at the hands of the federal government. It is certainly a day for celebration and one that would not be possible without the steadfast commitment of Interior Secretary Sally Jewell, who has tirelessly worked with tribal nations and their leaders to acknowledge and fulfill the broken promises of the past."

For more details about the terms of the settlement, click here.

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