Proposed regulations to govern the preparation of a roll of Grand River Ottawa Indians are being published in the Federal Register, Acting Commissioner of Indian Affairs Raymond V. Butler announced today. The roll will be used for a per capita distribution of about one million dollars awarded by the Indian Claims Commission.
A question about the payment of these funds was put to President Carter during his telephone-question program March 5. It was asked by Mrs. John Ritchie of Georgetown, Ky., who identified herself as a member of the tribe.
The award represents additional compensation for more than one million acres of land in southeastern Michigan ceded by the Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians under the treaty of August 29, 1821.
According to the regulations, a 1908 roll of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians in Michigan will establish an eligibility base. A person, or a lineal ancestor, must be listed on that roll. Other requirements include at least one-quarter degree of Grand River Ottawa Indian blood and United States citizenship.
Applications for enrollment will be handled through the BIA Michigan Agency at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.
Comments on these proposed regulations may be sent within 30 days to the Director Office of Indian Services, Tribal Services, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Washington, D.C. 20245.
