Politics
Republicans seek to close tribal donation 'loophole'


House Republicans plan to introduce a bill that would limit how much money tribal governments can contribute to federal candidates and political parties, USA Today reports.

The Federal Election Commission currently considers tribes to be "persons" under the law, the same status given to partnerships, corporations and associations. But since tribes are not considered "individuals," they can give unlimited total amounts to candidates and political parties.

But the House GOP proposal would treat tribes as individuals and limit them to a total of $101,400 in donations, USA Today said. The bill is being introduced this week.

Get the Story:
Tribes' political giving targeted (USA Today 1/31)

Relevant FEC Documents:
Advisory Opinion Draft A and Draft B | Tribe's Request for Advisory Opinion

Earlier FEC Rulings:
Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians (September 17, 1993) | Oneida Nation (May 15, 2000) | Tohono O'odham Nation (January 28, 2000)

Related Stories:
FEC ruling separates tribes from their businesses (03/14)