New York Gov. David Paterson (D) is apparently trying to negotiate with tribes over the state's controversial tobacco tax.

Paterson imposed "emergency" regulations and supported a new law that passes on the state tax to tribal retailers. But in a series of rulings the federal courts have blocked the effort from moving forward.

“It’s time for decades of court battles to come to an end,” a spokesperson for the governor told the Associated Press.

The Seneca Nation, the Cayuga Nation, the Oneida Nation and the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe are all in court over the issue. All say the tax infringes on their sovereignty and interferes with existing regulatory systems.

At least three judges have issued rulings in favor of the tribes.

Get the Story:
Indian smoke tax ban continues (AP 10/17)
TROs granted by judge (Indian Country Today 10/18)

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