I was pleased to see the Press Herald drawing attention to LD 395, “An Act to Restore Access to Federal Laws Beneficial to the Wabanaki Nations,” in several February articles. The inclusion of comments and testimonials from Wabanaki representatives and members was particularly important. 

It is an unfortunate truth that Gov. Mills has a pattern of changing or denying legislation that would support sovereignty for the Wabanaki Nations. The public could benefit from a new report into the political history of these denials. Such an article would be timely in alerting Mainers to the importance of LD 395 before the upcoming legislative votes.

The vital importance of LD 395 deserves more attention. Since the 1980 Settlement Act, a specific exception has prevented the Wabanaki Nations from benefiting from more than 150 federal laws. These laws protect their environment, provide disaster relief and support tribal self-governance in every other state. LD 395 would undo this exception and allow the Wabanaki Nations legal support that many other federally recognized tribes possess. 

Equity for the Wabanaki Nations is a matter of fundamental civil rights. I know that all Mainers can agree that every person in our state deserves the full protection of the law. It demonstrates journalistic integrity to highlight this shared value and to bring more awareness to LD 395 as it moves through the Legislature. 

Aurelia Snow
Old Town