The deadline for Congress to pass the Cobell trust fund lawsuit has been extended to April 16, 2010.

The plaintiffs and the Obama administration originally hoped Congress would act by December 31, 2009. When that didn't happen, the parties agreed to an extension until February 28, 2010.

The new date gives lawmakers more time to approve the deal, which provides $1.4 billion in direct payments to Indian beneficiaries and creates a $2 billion land consolidation program. Key members of Congress have expressed support but no legislation has been introduced so far.

Get the Story:
Cobell Settlement Deadline Extended Until April 16 (Main Justice 2/26)
Cobell Settlement Deadline Extended, Again (The Blog of Legal Times 2/26)

Relevant Documents:
Agreement | Press Release | Q&A | Audio

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