Today, Nov. 16, the 535 members of the 108th Congress reconvened to begin a post-election lame-duck session and complete their unfinished business. Their goal is to keep the session short and productive, yet this may be difficult as Republican leaders have failed to reach an agreement with the White House on a package that could bring the fiscal 2005 appropriations process to a quick conclusion.

A proposed rule from the Department of Interior would grant those in the hydroelectric industry the exclusive right to appeal rulings about how dams are licensed and operated. The rule could save the hydroelectric industry hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements while effectively cutting Indian tribes, states, federal agencies and environmental groups out of the appeals process.

The cap-and-trade method for curbing mercury emissions will greatly harm those from the Great Lakes region, particularly American Indians, according to a new white paper released by the Center for Progressive Regulation (CPR).

Independent Sector announced the formation of an eight-member Expert Advisory Group that will advise the "Panel on the Nonprofit Sector" formed in response to a request by the Finance Committee to make recommendations to Congress to improve the oversight and governance of charitable organizations. The Expert Advisory Group will provide knowledge and support to the Panel on such issues as government regulation, financial accountability, and tax policy. They will also provide perspective on recommendations from the working groups that will also support the panel.