Decision awaited on Mishewal Wappo Tribe federal recognition

Tuesday, June 10, 2014  

The Mishewal Wappo Tribe of California is waiting for a federal judge to issue a decision in a federal recognition lawsuit.

The tribe lost its federal status in 1961 under a termination law passed by Congress. The lawsuit contends that the Bureau of Indian Affairs didn't follow the right process.

The lawsuit was filed in 2009. The tribe was reportedly near a settlement with the Obama administration but the parties went back to court in July 2013 to argue before Judge Edward Davila, who has yet to rule.

Two counties tried to intervene but the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said they lacked standing.

Get the Story:
Napa County continues to await ruling in Wappo case (The Napa Valley Register 6/10)

9th Circuit Decision:
Mishewal Wappo Tribe v. Salazar (July 29, 2013)

Related Stories:
Editorial: County rises to counter threat of federal recognition (8/1)
Mishewal Wappo Tribe identifies backers of federal recognition (7/31)
Mishewal Wappo Tribe back in court in federal recognition suit (7/26)
Hearing scheduled in Mishewal Wappo Tribe's recognition case (07/08)
9th Circuit to hear appeal in Mishewal Wappo recognition case (6/3)