"One year ago this week, the Interior Department's top lawyer instigated a sharp debate over tribal lands in Alaska with a prediction that a final answer could be forthcoming in 12 months.
Which means, in theory, just about now.
But instead, Principal Deputy Solicitor Daniel Jorjani faces a politically sensitive challenge just as he awaits a Senate vote on his nomination to be solicitor and Alaska state officials remain at odds with some Alaska Native groups on the land-into-trust issue.
Consequently, a review period that's included written comments and eight transcribed public meetings may go on longer, even as officials and tribal members eagerly await Jorjani's next call.
At issue is whether the Interior Department has the authority to acquire land into trust for Alaska Natives, meaning the federal government holds the legal title to land for the benefit of a Native person or tribe. An Obama-era legal opinion concluded Interior does have the authority to take land into trust for Alaska Natives — a change from previous interpretations of the law."
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