An Introduction to the

Tribal Supreme Court Project

The Tribal Supreme Court Project works to improve strategy and promote greater coordination in U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) cases that may affect the rights and interests of Tribal Nations. The project is staffed by attorneys from the Native American Rights Fund and the National Congress of American Indians and consists of more than 300 volunteer attorneys, academics, and Tribal representatives from around the nation who specialise in federal Indian Law, Tribal advocacy, and SCOTUS practice.

Current Term: October Term 2025

Selected Cases that we are Monitoring

A coordinated and structured approach to Tribal advocacy is needed to preserve Tribal sovereignty, jurisdiction, and other rights and interests. The Tribal Supreme Court Project monitors selected Indian Law cases in the SCOTUS and occasionally in the lower courts. While the project works to keep our website up-to-date, please refer to the SCOTUS website for the most recent case information and dates.

Cert Granted

Cert Pending

Alaska v. United States (25-320)
11/17/2025 - Response to Petition Due
Chinook Indian Nation v. Burgum (25-313)
11/13/2025 - Response to Petition Due
Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians v. Michigan (25-165)
11/10/2025 - Response to Petition Due
Stroble v. Oklahoma Tax Commission (25-382)
12/1/2025 - Response to Petition Due
Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians v. Howe (25-253)

In Alaska v. United States (25-320) (Fishing regulation under ANILCA), the amicus briefs in support of the Petition were filed.

In Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians v. Howe (25-253) (Voting rights), the SCOTUS rescheduled the distribution of the Petition for conference.

In Chinook Indian Nation v. Burgum (25-313) (Federal recognition), the SCOTUS called for a Response to the Petition. The Response is due November 13, 2025.

In Stroble v. Oklahoma Tax Commission (25-382) (State taxation in Indian country), the SCOTUS has extended the time to and including December 1, 2025, to respond to the Petition.

Calendar of Selected Upcoming Dates

View hearing dates, filing deadlines, and new cert review announcements.