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[Marp]

I saved this a week or so ago to bring to your attention in case you did not see the ruling but forgot about it until tonight. Sorry for the delay.

From Associated Press

October 12, 2012 7:23 PM EDT

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department said Friday it is going to allow members of federally recognized Indian tribes to possess eagle feathers, although that's a federal crime.

This is a significant religious and cultural issue for many tribes, who were consulted in advance about the policy the department announced.

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and other federal wildlife laws criminalize the killing of eagles, which are listed as either endangered or threatened, and possession of feathers and bird parts, but the Constitution and federal laws also give tribes local sovereignty for self-government.

Under the new Justice Department policy, tribal members will not be prosecuted for wearing or carrying federally protected birds, bird feathers or parts. They also may pick up feathers found in the wild as long as they do not disturb federally protected birds or nests. Giving, lending or trading feathers or bird parts among tribe members, without any other compensation, also will be allowed.

FULL ARTICLE

http://my.earthlink.net/article/us?guid=20121012/46e3fa15-1d79-4646-9a00-911ab910e189