Rule change may allow tribes to reapply for status

A Biden-era rule change set to take effect Friday could allow more than 30 tribes, including California’s Muwekma Ohlone, to reapply for federal recognition. The rule lifts a long-standing ban on re-petitioning after denial, offering tribes another chance to gain recognition and access federal resources. However, it remains unclear whether the Trump administration will allow the change to proceed. Tribal leaders and legal experts are closely watching the decision.