The California Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in a case that will determine whether tribes must comply with the state's campaign finance laws.

The case arose when the Political Practices Commission, a state agency, sued two tribes. The commission said the Santa Rosa Indian Community and the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians failed to report millions in campaign contributions.

A lower court ruled against both tribes. But they say they are protected by sovereign immunity.

The arguments take place October 4 in Santa Barbara. The National Congress of American Indians is meeting in Sacramento that week.

Get the Story:
Top court to hear arguments over tribe contributions (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 9/7)

Court Decision:
FPPC V. Santa Rosa Indian Community (October 27, 2004)

Related Decision:
Agua Caliente Band v. FPPC (March 3, 2004)

Relevant Links:
Fair Political Practices Commission - http://www.fppc.ca.gov

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