New National Tribal Toxics Committee to Advise EPA

The National Tribal Environmental Council and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have partnered to form the National Tribal Toxics Committee (NTTC). This tribal committee will serve to advise the EPA on issues including how to best serve Indian Country with its chemical management and pollution prevention programs as well as how to address chemical exposures that may be unique to tribes and their members.

For more information see the EPA news release or the official page of the NTTC.

New book on employment law in Indian country

Attorney Kaighn Smith Jr. and the Native American Rights Fund have teamed up on a new book covering labor and employment issues in Indian Country. This book is due out in January, 2011 but can be pre-ordered.
This title will fill a void in this important area of Indian law and is scheduled for periodic updates. See more information about the book at the Turtle Talk Blog.

Tribal Court's Authority Confirmed by U.S. Supreme Court

Yesterday, the United States Supreme Court declined to hear the State's appeal in the case of Hogan v. Kaltag Tribal Council, thus effectively ending the case and clearly reinforcing the rule that tribal courts have authority to initiate and fully adjudicate children's cases.

See NARF's press release on this case.

See also case information at the National Indian Law Library's Supreme Court Bulletin.