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Oregon Takes a Bold Step: New Bill Empowering Tribes to Reclaim Jurisdiction on Tribal Lands Signed into Law

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Salem, Oregon — A new law aimed at simplifying jurisdictional complexities in Oregon’s Indian Country has been signed by Governor Tina Kotek. The legislation, which garnered unanimous support in both chambers of the state Legislature, was enacted on May 22 and will establish a formal process for tribal nations to request changes to state jurisdiction on their lands. The law specifically addresses the implications of Public Law 83-280, enacted in 1953, which allowed certain states, including Oregon, to claim jurisdiction over tribal lands. This has complicated criminal and civil matters, as jurisdiction often varies based … Read more

Odisha’s Suakati Gram Panchayat Shines at National Awards for e-Governance, Paving the Way for Digital Excellence in Rural India

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Bhubaneswar, India — The Suakati Gram Panchayat in Keonjhar district has earned a remarkable distinction, winning a Jury Award at the 22nd National Awards for e-Governance (NAeG) 2025. This accolade adds to Odisha’s reputation for innovation in local governance, as Suakati is one of only three local bodies across the nation to achieve recognition in a newly established category for Gram Panchayats. This inaugural category highlights successful grassroots initiatives that effectively utilize technology to improve service delivery. Alongside Suakati, Palsana Gram Panchayat from Gujarat and the Lalitpur Municipal Council from Uttar Pradesh also received accolades, … Read more

Judge Urges Trump Administration to Prioritize Logic over Rhetoric in Crucial Deportation Case

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A U.S. District Court judge urged the Trump administration to prioritize reason over inflammatory language in an ongoing deportation case involving a group of undocumented immigrants. The case has drawn attention to the complexities of immigration policy and the administration’s enforcement practices. During a recent hearing, Judge John Doe expressed concern about the impact rhetoric surrounding immigration has on the judicial process. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that respects legal frameworks while ensuring the humane treatment of individuals facing deportation. The judge’s comments reflect growing anxiety among legal experts and advocates regarding … Read more

Argent Trust Pursues Over $9 Million in Damages Against Blackbeard Operating in Texas Royalty Dispute

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DALLAS, Texas — Argent Trust Company, acting as Trustee of the Permian Basin Royalty Trust, has submitted a second amended petition in a Tarrant County court as part of its ongoing lawsuit against Blackbeard Operating LLC. The legal dispute centers around oil and gas properties in Crane County, Texas, where the Trust claims ownership of a 75% net overriding royalty. The new petition seeks to recover more than $9 million, alleging that Blackbeard improperly calculated and withheld royalty payments owed to the Trust. Specific claims include inappropriate deductions for overhead costs, labor expenses, and saltwater … Read more