Where there is a Will, there is a Way
By Mark Vezzola, CILS Escondido office Directing Attorney With unemployment on the rise and our economic futures uncertain, making a will may not seem like a priority. But estate planning for Indian trust property is more important now than ever. The truth is that life is uncertain. Since we do not know what tomorrow holds, […]
Active Efforts in ICWA Cases During the Pandemic
By Debra Avenmarg, CILS Eureka office Staff Attorney Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) cases are being severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic: courts are delaying time-sensitive hearings, tribal families visits are being disrupted or canceled altogether, and case plan services are being put on hold. This raises concerns of whether active efforts tribal families need […]
FY20 Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Program
Pre-Application Deadline April 30, 2020 CILS encourages tribes to take advantage of the Department of Justice’s solicitation to distribute over $100 million to tribes to support crime victim services. For the first time this year, the funding will be distributed via a formula to all eligible tribal governments. This year’s solicitation has two mandatory deadlines: […]
TRIBAL ALERT: Tribal Nation Grant Funds Available
In case you have not heard the Tribal Nation Grant Fund (TNGF) has $17.3 million available in COVID-19 Emergency Grants. Eligible tribal applicants may apply for up to $245,000 to fund programs, procurement of supplies, and actions taken in response to guidance of public health officials to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications are due on April […]
TRIBAL ALERT: Domestic Violence During Covid-19
California Indian Legal Services is very concerned about the potential for a significant increase in domestic violence when families are restricted to their homes. This is undoubtedly a stressful time for all. Many people have lost their jobs, which is causing severe financial distress. Children are having to adapt to a curtailment of their usual […]
TRIBAL ALERT: DOI and Department of Treasury Consultation
The U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Department of the Treasury will be holding two Tribal Leader Consultations regarding the distribution of the $8 billion set aside for tribal governments and tribal entities under the recently passed CARES Act. The Departments want to hear from tribal leaders on what allocation formula/methodology should be […]
