Reporting Contributions from Tribes – A Case of Tribal Sovereignty?
Yesterday Jim Lacy reported here on the Flashreport that the California Supreme Court issued a 4-3 ruling upholding California ‘s ability to enforce provisions of the Political Reform Act against Indian Tribes.As Jim noted, this case very well may head to the US Supreme Court.
Among other things, the Political Reform Act imposes campaign contribution limits and requires political committees to file periodic campaign finance reports that disclose contributions and sources of funds.
It was the later (public disclosure) that the Tribes claimed violated their "sovereign immunity" under federal Constitutional principles that basically provide that Indian Tribes, like foreign governments, are immune from regulation by state governments.( Const. Art. I, sec. 10; Santa Clara … Read More