A federal judge won't allow two California counties to appeal a decision in the Mishewal Wappo Tribe federal recognition lawsuit.

Napa and Sonoma counties lost a motion to dismiss the tribe's lawsuit, which was filed against the Interior Department. The counties sought permission to appeal the order but Judge Edward Davila denied the request.

The counties are still parties to the lawsuit. The Obama administration is reportedly working on a settlement that could lead to the restoration of federal recognition the tribe.

The tribe says it was wrongfully terminated.

Get the Story:
Sonoma County barred from appealing Wappo Indians' tribal effort (The Santa Rosa Press-Democrat 2/3)

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