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FY 2024 Adult Treatment Court Program

February 24, 2024

FY 2024 Adult Treatment Court Program Application Grants.gov Deadline: May 2, 2024 @ 8:59pm ET Application JustGrants Deadline: May 9, 2024 @ 8:59pm ET

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2024 Census of Tribal Court Systems (2024 CTCS) Webinar

February 15, 2024

BJS invites you to a webinar for tribal court systems to discuss the 2024 Census of Tribal Court Systems (2024 CTCS) on February 20, 2024 1:00-2:30 pm ET.

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FY 24 Adult Treatment Court Solicitation Webinar

February 8, 2024

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is hosting a webinar to assist with applications for its Adult Treatment Court Program grant solicitation. The webinar will be held this Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. ET. Registration is now open!

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New TLPI Intergovernmental Collaboration Newsletter, Issue 2 Released!

January 23, 2024

The new TLPI Walking on Common Ground Newsletter, Issue 2 is now available! Intergovernmental collaboration is a key that can open the door to leveraging resources for increased public safety in Indian country and surrounding communities. This newsletter brings together stories, resources, and information on tribal-state collaboration, with a focus on court and law enforcement collaboration. Our hope is to inspire and encourage collaborations by highlighting the innovative work that is happening in many jurisdictions. We welcome feedback, suggestions, and any information to be included in future newsletters. If you have information or an article that you would like to share for future newsletters, please contact Chia Halpern Beetso at Chia@TLPI.org.

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New Publication Announcement: TLPI Enhanced Tribal Authority Series Enhanced Sentencing Authority Tribal Law and Order Act

January 9, 2024

The Tribal Law and Policy Institute is pleased to announce the release of its newest publication in its Enhanced Tribal Authority Series – Enhanced Sentencing Authority Tribal Law and Order Act supported by the Bureau of Justice Assistance.

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Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) FY 2024 Webinar Schedule

January 8, 2024

DOJ Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) FY 2024 Webinar Schedule January 18 through February 20, 2024

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DOJ FY 2024 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation is Open

December 14, 2023

Grants.gov Deadline: March 5, 2024; 8:59pm ET Application JustGrants Deadline: March 12, 2024; 8:59pm ET CTAS provides comprehensive funding to American Indian and Alaska Native tribal governments and tribal consortia to support public safety, victim services, and crime prevention.

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Registration and Hotel Block Now Open for the Emerging Issues Conference

November 27, 2023

January 11-12, 2024 Grand Hyatt Seattle | Seattle, WA Cutoff date for hotel reservations is December 18, 2023. The Emerging Issues conference will provide tribal justice system officials with recent legal updates impacting tribal courts and tribal justice systems and strategies to improve tribal court operations within tribal justice systems.

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The Tribal Law and Policy Institute Announces a New Joint Jurisdiction 101 Publication

November 3, 2023

The Tribal Law and Policy Institute (TLPI) is pleased to announce a new short publication, Intergovernmental Collaborations to Heal, Protect, and Find Solutions: Joint Jurisdiction 101 (2023). This publication provides general guidance to assist Tribes in making an informed decision concerning the possibility of developing a Joint Jurisdiction Court. The publication discusses what a Joint Jurisdictional Court is, the different models and approaches that exists, how a community can assess their readiness to implement a Joint Jurisdictional model, and will provide recommendations for design, development, and implementation of Joint Jurisdictional Courts from a practical standpoint. The publication also includes resources and tools used by active joint jurisdictional court practitioners.

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Two New ICWA Resources Are Available on the Tribal Information Exchange

October 3, 2023

Two new ICWA resources are available for download on the Tribal Information Exchange: The Comprehensive State ICWA Laws Map and the ICWA Resources for States and Tribes

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The Tribal Law and Policy Institute Announces a New Installment in the Enhanced Tribal Authority Series

September 27, 2023

The Tribal Law and Policy Institute is pleased to announce a new publication, Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction over Non-Indians: Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization of 2022.

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New website! VAWA Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction

September 27, 2023

This website was developed as a resource focusing on Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction. It contains an overview of the Violence against Women Reauthorization Act of 2022: Tribal Criminal Jurisdictions over Non-Indians, categories of criminal conduct under VAWA 2022, Frequently Asked Questions, news, webinars and resources, events, funding information, and information for the Intertribal Technical-Assistance Working Group (ITWG).

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OJJDP To Hold Virtual Tribal Consultations and Listening Sessions

September 20, 2023

The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) invites Tribal leaders, policymakers, practitioners, and others to participate via webinar in one of three upcoming Tribal consultation meetings and listening sessions. OJJDP seeks input on OJJDP priorities, proposed regulations, and how OJJDP funding can best support Tribes to enhance and expand efforts to prevent and reduce delinquency and improve juvenile justice systems. Each consultation with Tribal leaders will be directly followed by a listening session for those other than Tribal leaders.

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Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco Delivers Remarks at the Justice Department’s Annual Tribal Consultation

August 10, 2023

The Deputy Attorney General delivered recorded remarks at the Justice Department’s 18th Annual Government-to-Government Violence Against Women Tribal Consultation.

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FY 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program - Local Solicitation- Upcoming Deadline

August 8, 2023

Grants.gov Deadline: August 24, 2023 JustGrants Deadline: August 31, 2023 JAG Program funds are available for federally recognized American Indian tribal governments that perform law enforcement functions (as determined by the Secretary of the Interior)

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TLPI Congratulates the first Native American recipient of the 2023 Judith S. Kaye Award- Hon. Melissa L. Pope

August 7, 2023

The American Bar Association (ABA) Commission on Domestic & Sexual Violence awarded the Honorable Melissa L. Pope, chief judge for the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Court, the Judith S. Kaye Award for judicial excellence.

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TLPI Congratulates the 2023 Thurgood Marshall Award Recipient- John E. Echohawk

August 7, 2023

The American Bar Association (ABA) Section of Civil Rights and Social Justice (CRSJ) honored the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) Executive Director John E. Echohawk with the Thurgood Marshall Award during the 2023 ABA Annual Meeting in Denver, CO,

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Capacity Building Center for State's Spotlight on Collaborating to Strengthen and Enhance Tribal-State Relationships

July 20, 2023

Collaboration between state child welfare agencies and tribes is essential to ensure that the best interests of American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) children and families are met. Authentic and effective collaboration is built on a foundation of trust and respect. Child welfare agencies need to acknowledge the historical trauma and inequities that continue to this day, to overcome mistrust and forge strong partnerships with tribes.1 Tribal leaders and community members are the best experts in supporting AI/AN children, young people, and families. State agencies should be open to learning from tribes, prioritizing their perspectives, and incorporating their knowledge into child welfare policy and practice. By respecting tribes as equal partners with unique cultures, values, needs, and expertise, state child welfare agencies can build more equitable child welfare systems and improve outcomes for children, young people, and families.

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New TLPI Intergovernmental Collaboration Newsletter, Issue 1 Released!

June 7, 2023

The New Walking On Common Ground Newsletter is now available! Intergovernmental collaboration is a key that can open the door to leveraging resources for increased public safety in Indian country and surrounding communities. This newsletter brings together stories, resources, and information on tribal-state collaboration, with a focus on court and law enforcement collaboration. Our hope is to inspire and encourage collaborations by highlighting the innovative work that is happening in many jurisdictions. We welcome feedback, suggestions, and any information to be included in future newsletters.

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ABA to honor Chief Judge Melissa Pope as the first Native American recipient of the 2023 Judith S. Kaye Award

June 5, 2023

The American Bar Association (ABA) Commission on Domestic & Sexual Violence will award the Honorable Melissa L. Pope, chief judge for the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Court, the Judith S. Kaye Award for judicial excellence.

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Funding Opportunity to support State-Tribal Partnerships in Implementing Best Practices in Indian Chid Welfare

June 2, 2023

Closing Date for Applications: Jun 13, 2023 The goal is to create and implement intergovernmental partnership models that are culturally appropriate for federally recognized AI/AN children to prevent maltreatment, removal from families and communities, and improve safety, permanency, and well-being.

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National Center for State Courts (NCSC) Webinar: Working Together - Why and How State Courts Should Collaborate With Tribes

June 1, 2023

Monday June 12, 2023 2:00-3:00 pm ET In this webinar, Supreme Court justices from Washington and Michigan will discuss how state courts can develop strong working relationships with tribes, including establishing permanent collaborative forums for state, tribal, and federal courts. This webinar is sponsored by the Tribal Relations Committee of the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ) and the Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA).

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New Tribal-State Jurisdiction Resource from the Native American Rights Fund (NARF)

May 2, 2023

Tribal nations, the federal government, and states coordinate across jurisdictions, a process which the recent Castro-Huerta Supreme Court decision impacts. The Native American Rights Fund (NARF) recently created a guide to tribal-state jurisdictions.

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COPS Office Releases New Tribal MOU/MOA Resource Library

May 1, 2023

The COPS Office is pleased to release a new resource focused on supporting collaboration for Tribal law enforcement. This library is designed to provide users with the resources they need to research and successfully draft memoranda of understanding (MOU) and memoranda of agreement (MOA). MOUs and MOAs will help agencies develop and solidify partnerships to address missing or murdered Indigenous persons cases and provide a wide range of other related opportunities for collaboration.

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New Joint Jurisdiction Court Resource Page

April 11, 2023

TLPI has added a directory of all operational joint jurisdictional courts and resources for Joint Jurisdictional Court planning and implementation.

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Registration Now Open for American Indian Justice Conference

March 21, 2023

May 3 - 4, 2023 | Grand Sierra Resort & Casino | Reno, NV | 8:00 am - 5:15 pm

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OVW's FY 2023 Grants to Improve the Criminal Justice Response Program Solicitation Now Open

March 20, 2023

Application deadline for Grants.gov: April 20, 2023 – 11:59 p.m. ET Application deadline for JustGrants: April 27, 2023 – 9:00 p.m. ET Letter of Intent: April 6, 2023 Pre-application call: March 30, 2023

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DOJ FY 2023 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation Upcoming Deadlines

March 15, 2023

Grants.gov Deadline: March 21, 2023 Application JustGrants Deadline: March 28, 2023 CTAS provides comprehensive funding to American Indian and Alaska Native tribal governments and tribal consortia to support public safety, victim services, and crime prevention.

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FY 2023 Adult Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program Question and Answer Session

March 15, 2023

Wednesday, March 22, 2023 10am PT/ 11am MT/ 12pm CT/ 1pm ET

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FY 2023 Emmett Till Cold Case Investigations and Prosecution Program

March 6, 2023

Grants.gov Deadline: May 17, 2023 JustGrants Deadline: May 24, 2023 Funding Webinar: March 29, 2023, at 1 p.m. ET

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FY 2023 Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Site-based Program

February 28, 2023

Grants.gov deadline: March 21, 2023 Applications JustGrants deadline: March 28, 2023 COSSAP provides funding to develop, implement, or expand comprehensive programs in response to the overdose crisis and the impacts of use and misuse of opioids, stimulants, or other substances.

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FY 2023 Adult Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program

January 27, 2023

Application Grants.gov Deadline: April 11, 2023 @ 8:59pm ET Application JustGrants Deadline: April 18, 2023 @ 8:59pm ET

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SAMHSA Funding Available to Expand Treatment Capacity in Treatment Courts

January 10, 2023

Application deadline: Monday, March 6, 2023 The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released its FY23 solicitation for treatment courts.

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DOJ FY 2023 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation is Open

December 20, 2022

Grants.gov Deadline: March 21, 2023 Application JustGrants Deadline: March 28, 2023 CTAS provides comprehensive funding to American Indian and Alaska Native tribal governments and tribal consortia to support public safety, victim services, and crime prevention.

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FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs Sign Agreement to Improve Law Enforcement in Indian Country

December 1, 2022

During remarks at the 2022 White House Tribal Nations Summit today, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced that the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) signed an agreement to establish guidelines to provide for the effective and efficient administration of criminal investigations in Indian Country. This is the first update since the early 1990s to a memorandum of understanding between the agencies.

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2023 Thurgood Marshall Award Celebration Honoring John E. Echohawk

December 1, 2022

The American Bar Association (ABA) Section of Civil Rights and Social Justice (CRSJ) will honor Native American Rights Fund (NARF) Executive Director John E. Echohawk with the Thurgood Marshall Award during the 2023 ABA Annual Meeting in Denver, CO.

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Oklahoma v. Castro-Huerta: Resources and Webinars

August 1, 2022

The U.S. Supreme Court decision in Oklahoma v. Castro-Huerta altered nearly 200 years of existing law and policy. Find resources here.

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SCOTUS Decision in Oklahoma v. Castro-Huerta

July 6, 2022

US Court fractures decades of Native American law. It's unclear how the decision ultimately will play out for tribes...

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Justice Department Opens Application Period for Program to Enhance Tribal Access to National Crime Information Databases

June 30, 2022

The Department of Justice is pleased to announce the opening of the application period for federally recognized Tribes and intertribal consortia to participate in the Tribal Access Program (TAP) for National Crime Information, which provides federally recognized Tribes the ability to access and exchange data with national crime information databases for authorized criminal justice and non-criminal justice purposes.

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Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) 2022

May 10, 2022

On March 15, 2022, President Biden signed the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization bill (VAWA 2022) as a part of the Omnibus funding bill (H.R. 2471). The tribal provisions of VAWA 2022 are included in Title VIII of Division W of the overall bill.

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New Publication on Joint Jurisdiction Courts

February 22, 2022

Tribal, state, federal and local courts have overlapping jurisdictions and face common challenges and resource limitations. To address these concerns, several jurisdictions have come together in a joint jurisdictional model that acknowledges each other’s autonomy, while sharing resources for better outcomes for everyone. In September 2019, the Tribal Law and Policy Institute, in collaboration with the Bureau of Justice Assistance, disseminated a needs assessment survey to the joint jurisdiction courts known to be operational. TLPI gathered information on (1) the courts’ approach, design, and development; (2) the courts’ operations; (3) the court-connected services; (4) the court collaboration and coordination; (5) court record management and evaluation; and (6) techniques to sustain the courts. TLPI developed a full report of findings, as well as a summary report. The needs assessment survey responses showed that these courts share similar characteristics and face similar challenges. The full report provides details on the findings of the needs assessment survey, including an overview of the lessons learned, the effectiveness of joint jurisdiction courts, and the funding needed to support their implementation, sustainability, and growth.

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Now Posted - Tribal-State Collaboration Webinar Series Recordings

October 5, 2021

In case you missed any of the Tribal-State Collaboration webinars from the series this summer, the webinar recordings are available under the "Resources" tab. If you have any questions, please contact chia@tlpi.org.

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U.S. Court unanimously holds that Indian tribes retain the inherent power to police non-Indians

June 3, 2021

A tribal police officer has authority to detain temporarily and to search non-Indian persons traveling on public rights-of-way running through a reservation for potential violations of state or federal law.

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Poarch Band of Creek Indians: Collaboration Webinar

May 21, 2021

Review the steps Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Alabama’s only federally recognized tribe, took to overcome jurisdictional barriers to achieve implementation of state legislation

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2020 Updates Released: Tribal-State Court Forum Publications

May 14, 2021

TLPI announces the release of two Tribal-State Court Forum publications updated with 2020 information.

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Washington State American Indian Health Commission COVID 19 Resources

March 22, 2020

Washington State American Indian Health Commission COVID 19 Resources as March 22, 2020

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DOJ TAP Enhances Tribal Access to FBI National Sex Offender Registry

July 15, 2019

The U.S. Department of Justice announced a new tool giving tribal governments the ability to directly input data and gain access to the FBI’s National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) using the Tribe and Territory Sex Offender Registry System (TTSORS). The system connection will be available to all tribal governments already participating in the Tribal Access Program (TAP), which allows information sharing between tribal and federal government criminal information systems.

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New Tribal Protection Order Publication!

April 1, 2019

Emerging Strategies in Tribal-State Collaboration: Barriers and Solutions to Enforcing Tribal Protection Order Meeting Report. On December 6, 2017, the Tribal Law and Policy Institute, in collaboration with BJA, hosted a day-long meeting to explore the barriers and highlight promising strategies around the enforcement of tribal protection orders. This report details those discussions and summarizes the successful efforts

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Collaboration 101

March 12, 2019

Crossing the Bridge: Tribal-State-Local Collaboration gives practical steps toward initiating discussions across jurisdictions to “cross the bridge” and begin the relationship building necessary for collaborative endeavors that work toward common goals.

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Utah Signs Inter-Governmental Agreement to Support Navajo Families

February 14, 2019

Utah Attorney General Sean D. Reyes met with the leadership of the Navajo Nation, reported on the proceedings of the ICWA lawsuit, and signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (between DCFS & Navajo Nation) with Governor Gary R. Herbert.

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Upcoming Webinar: Project ChildSafe

September 6, 2018

Please join the Native American Rights Fund for an important webinar on Project ChildSafe, Wednesday, September 12 at 11:00 AM PST.

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Department of Justice Tribal Access Program Will Continue to Improve the Exchange of Critical Data To Solve Crimes and Strengthen Public Safety in Indian Country

August 3, 2018

The Department of Justice is pleased to announce expansion of the Tribal Access Program (TAP), a program providing federally recognized Tribes the ability to access and exchange data with the national crime information databases for both civil and criminal purposes.

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Minnesota Supreme Court Rule Recognizing Tribal Court Orders

July 5, 2018

Over 15 years ago, the Minnesota Tribal Court/State Court Forum petitioned the Minnesota Supreme Court to adopt a robust rule for recognition of tribal court orders . . .

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New Publication on Cross Deputization in Indian Country

April 26, 2018

This report examines the jurisdictional and legal limits of cross-deputization and how it has been implemented in various law enforcement agencies in Indian country

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New Washington law aims to help find missing Native American women

April 12, 2018

.. . The law’s sponsor, Rep. Gina McCabe, R-Goldendale, said it tries to fix a lack of coordination between different law enforcement and government agencies at state, federal and tribal levels.

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Collaboration Spotlight: Circle Sentencing in Alaska

March 20, 2018

The Alaska Supreme Court has adopted two rules which authorize judges to refer cases to tribes and other entities for recommendations as to the appropriate sentence or disposition.

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Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction Five Year Report

March 20, 2018

The National Congress of American Indians has released a 5 year report on the implementation of VAWA's Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction.

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New Publication on Michigan's Tribal, State and Federal Court Forum

February 1, 2018

Just Released: Michigan's Judiciary Success Stories: How Tribal, State and Federal Courts are Collaborating to Benefit Michigan Families. This new publication highlights the success stories of the Michigan Tribal State Federal Judicial Forum,

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Free Gun Locks for Tribal Law Enforcement and Health Organizations

January 26, 2018

The U.S. Department of Justice – Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), in cooperation with the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Project ChildSafe,has announced a new program that makes free gun locks and firearms safety information

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DOJ Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation is Open

January 4, 2018

Solicitation deadline is March 20, 2018. CTAS provides comprehensive funding to American Indian and Alaska Native tribal governments and tribal consortia to support public safety, victim services, and crime prevention.

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Enforcing Tribal Protection Orders: Panel Discussions

November 19, 2017

The Tribal Law and Policy Institute is hosting a meeting on Emerging Strategies in Tribal State Collaboration: Enforcement of Tribal Protection Orders, to be held on December 6, 2017 in Palm Springs, California.

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Tribal Justice Film Streaming Available

November 2, 2017

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Makepeace Productions is launching Tribal Justice streaming online, making the film available for personal home use for the first time since the POV broadcast.

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American Indian Justice Conference

November 2, 2017

On December 7-8, 2017, the National American Indian Court Judges Association and it's partners will host the American Indian Justice Conference on the Agua Caliente Reservation.

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Alaska tribes and state sign historic document on tribal child welfare

October 23, 2017

"It's the first state-tribal compact for child welfare in the country, said Valerie "Nurr'araaluk" Davidson."

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Department of Justice Announces Additional Expansion of Program to Enhance Tribal Access to National Crime Information Databases

August 14, 2017

Department of Justice Announces Additional Expansion of Program to Enhance Tribal Access to National Crime Information Databases

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Henu' Community Court Grand Opening

June 29, 2017

Henu' Community court, a joint jurisdiction court between the Kenaitze Indian Tribe and the State of Alaska, celebrates its grand opening.

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Attorney General Jeff Sessions Announces New Actions to Support Law Enforcement and Maintain Public Safety in Indian Country

April 18, 2017

Attorney General Jeff Sessions Announces New Actions to Support Law Enforcement and Maintain Public Safety in Indian Country

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Tribal Law Enforcement Executive Symposium

March 20, 2017

The symposium "Breaking down jurisdictional barriers" will be held May 10-11, 2017 at Warm Springs, OR.

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Grants to Tribal Governments to Exercise Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction (re-issued)

March 17, 2017

Grants to Tribal Governments to Exercise Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction (re-issued) April 19, 2017: Registration due May 3, 2017: Applications due

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Idaho Report on Indian Country Jurisdiction

March 7, 2017

"State Jurisdiction in Indian Country" was developed in response to discussions on retrocession in Idaho.

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California AG Information Bulletin on Tribal Protection Orders

February 7, 2017

This much needed guidance clarifies what constitutes a valid order and further enumerates what is NOT required.

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Justice Dept. Cements Position on Concurrent Federal Criminal Jurisdiction in “Optional” P.L. 280 States

January 19, 2017

The Acting Solicitor General has issued a memo.

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U.S. Accepts Concurrent Jurisdiction Over Hoopa Valley Reservation

January 19, 2017

The Department of Justice has granted a request by the Hoopa Valley Tribe for the United States to assume concurrent criminal jurisdiction on the tribe’s reservation.

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OVW Grants to Tribes to Exercise Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction Now Available

December 5, 2016

Due January 25, 2017

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Judge Thorne Receives Distinguished Service Award from the National Center for State Courts

October 14, 2016

Congratulations Judge Thorne! William A. Thorne Jr., retired Utah Court of Appeals judge and former chairman of the Child Trends board of directors, recently received the Distinguished Service Award from the National Center for State Courts.

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DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF PROGRAM TO ENHANCE TRIBAL ACCESS TO NATIONAL CRIME INFORMATION DATABASES

October 13, 2016

The Department of Justice is expanding the TAP program, with the expressions of interest from tribes due between October 24 and December 2, 2016. Federally recognized tribes interested in participating in this next phase of TAP must submit a letter or resolution from the tribe’s governing body.

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Focus Group for Tribal Victim Services

August 5, 2016

Participants are needed for focus groups on tribal victim services taking place in Los Angeles, St. Paul, Phoenix, and Catoosa, OK.

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Call for Presentations for the 15th National Indian Nations Conference

July 15, 2016

Workshop Submission Deadline: July 15, 2016

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Dollar General v. Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians - Tribal Jurisdiction Affirmed

June 23, 2016

In a tie, 4-4 decision, Fifth Circuit decision upholding tribal civil jurisdiction over non-Indians is affirmed, but is not binding on other circuits.

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Joint Jurisdiction Courts Manual Just Released

June 9, 2016

Joint Jurisdiction Courts: A Manual for Developing Tribal, Local, State & Federal Justice Collaborations is a roadmap for tribal and community leaders who want to develop joint jurisdiction courts.

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New Tribal-State Court Forum Approved!

June 9, 2016

The Kansas Judicial Council has approved the creation of the Kansas Tribal-State Court Forum. More to come from Kansas in the near future.

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Bureau of Indian Affairs Issues Final Regulations to Strengthen the Implementation of the Indian Child Welfare Act (June 8, 2016)

June 9, 2016

Acting Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs Lawrence S. Roberts announced final, updated measures to protect the rights of Indian children

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National Convening of Tribal-State Court Forums

June 6, 2016

On June 2-3, 2016 TLPI hosted a National Convening of Tribal-State Court Forums in downtown Los Angeles. There were 13 states represented and over 45 participants/

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American Indian Justice Conference

June 1, 2016

Tucson, AZ; June 14-15, 2016. Hosted by Fox Valley's National Criminal Justice Training Center, the Tribal Judicial Institute, and the National Tribal Judicial Center.

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NIJ Report: Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women and Men

May 10, 2016

A new NIJ research report finds that violence against American Indians (AI) and Alaska Natives (AN) is more common than violence against others — far more common than previous research indicated.

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Congress Allocates $10 Million for Tribal Courts in PL 280 States

April 14, 2016

The Department of Interior is hosting two consultations calls for tribal leaders on courts in PL 280 states: April 19 and April 26. The written comment deadline is April 29 by midnight.

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Save the Date: 15th National Indian Nations Conference!

April 14, 2016

The 15th National Indian Nations Conference, funded by the Office for Victims of Crime, will take place December 8-10, 2016, pending federal approval, at the Renaissance Hotel on the Agua Caliente Reservation in the Coachella Valley of California.

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Honoring Nations Semi-Finalists Named

March 31, 2016

The Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development announces list of semi-finalists for Honoring Nations Award.

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Tribal-State Court Forums Annotated Directory Now Online!

January 27, 2016

The Tribal Law and Policy Institute is happy to announce the publication of: Tribal-State Court Forums: An Annotated Directory. This directory includes a detailed listing of the 10 currently operational Tribal -State Court forums around the nation. These forums provide unique collaboration opportunities across jurisdictions and have led to such positive outcomes as

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U.S. Accept Concurrent Jurisdiction Over Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Reservation

January 14, 2016

The Department of Justice has granted a request by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe for the U.S. to assume concurrent criminal jurisdiction on the tribe’s reservation in central Minnesota.

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TLPI CTAS webinars focusing on funding VAWA SDVCJ Implementation

December 30, 2015

TLPI CTAS webinars focusing on funding VAWA SDVCJ Implementation

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TLPI CTAS webinars focusing on funding VAWA SDVCJ Implementation

December 30, 2015

TLPI CTAS webinars focusing on funding VAWA SDVCJ Implementation

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Announcing New TLPI Website: www.home.tlpi.org

November 25, 2015

This new site includes comprehensive information on TLPI's 20 years as a non-profit serving Indian country, resources, products and

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Yakama Nation Retrocedes from Public Law 280

October 22, 2015

Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs Washburn announced that the DOI has accepted from the State of Washington the partial civil and criminal jurisdiction it held over the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation.

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Federal Grants Available for Tribal-State ICWA Programs

August 20, 2015

The Department of Health and Human Services announced this upcoming funding opportunity, with an estimated due date of 6/12/2016.

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Tribal-State Law Enforcement Collaboration Webinar July 23

July 16, 2015

"Improving Tribal & State Community Relations: Joint Crow Creek Sioux Tribe and South Dakota Highway Patrol Memorandum of Understanding" webinar will be held July 23 at 3pm eastern.

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A Dialogue on TLOA Implementation of Enhanced Sentencing Authority

July 13, 2015

On July 13-14, 2015, tribal governments will share their experiences in implementing this new authority, including how the authority is interacting with federal prosecution.

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New Code Resource: Implementing TLOA and VAWA

May 20, 2015

Now available online, a new legal code resource guide for drafting or revising tribal laws to implement the Tribal Law and Order Act enhanced sentencing and the Violence Against Women Act special domestic violence criminal jurisdiction.

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Tribal courts seek greater access to state and federal systems

April 7, 2015

The National American Indian Court Judges Association is calling for "immediate" access to state and federal criminal registration systems, a promise that remains unfulfilled nearly five years after the passage of the Tribal Law and Order Act.

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Intergovernmental Reentry Workshops Announced

March 5, 2015

Three workshops focused on "Planning for Reentry: From Federal, State and Tribal Correctional Facilities to Communities in Indian Country" will be held regionally in April and May of 2015.

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Cooperation Improves Kids’ Lives in Tribal Nation within County

January 22, 2015

BEMIDJI, Minn - The Red Lake Nation is a sovereign American Indian entity surrounded by Beltrami County. Red Lake people use some county services, but also have their own courts and social services. Beltrami County kids are served by courts and social services based in the city of Bemidji, the county seat.

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Webinar: FY 2015 CTAS Funding for VAWA Implementation

January 20, 2015

On Jan. 20th, TLPI discussed how Purpose Areas #3 and #5 can be used to fund the implementation of VAWA's special domestic violence criminal jurisdiction.

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VAWA Website for the Inter-Tribal Working Group

January 20, 2015

The Tribal Law and Policy Institute (TLPI), the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), and the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ) have jointly launched a website full of resources

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Attorney General Holder Issues Guidelines for Working with Federally Recognized Tribes

January 6, 2015

Including overarching principles, coordination and outreach, consultation and communication, culture and mutual respect, law enforcement and more.

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Indian Nations Conference Materials Posted

December 1, 2014

This conference focusing on Justice for Victims of Crime, was held in Palm Springs on December 11-13, 2014.

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Sarah Deer Receives MacArthur Genius Grant Award

September 17, 2014

Former TLPI staff member Sarah Deer is awarded the prestigious MacArthur Genius Grant Award for her work on domestic violence in Indian

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South Dakota Launches Tribal Parole Pilot Program

August 12, 2014

For this pilot program, the state will provide training and funding for a tribal parole agent to supervise parolees on the reservation. The tribal agent will use the same parole system that state agents use.

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Michigan Supreme Court Issues Order to Create Tribal-State Forum

June 26, 2014

The Michigan Supreme Court issued an order creating the Michigan Tribal State Federal Judicial Forum.

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Survey and Analysis of Select Title IV-E Tribal-State Agreements

March 27, 2014

This report provides a detailed analysis of Title IV-E tribal-state agreements and includes an overall summary of the status of current Title IV-E agreements, as well as a breakdown of the provisions that can be found in those agreements by subject matter

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NC Court of Appeals Affirms Conviction Under Tribal-State Cross-Deputization Agreement

March 20, 2014

Pursuant to the Tribal Code of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians and mutual compact agreements between the Tribe and other law enforcement agencies, the North Carolina Highway Patrol has authority . . .

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Tribal, County Courts Join to Hear Family, Juvenile Cases

March 17, 2014

California: The Superior Court of El Dorado County and the Shingle Springs Rancheria will collaborate to create a court for juvenile and family court cases.

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Indian Law and Order Commission Reports on Intergovernmental Cooperation

February 3, 2014

"Intergovernmental Cooperation: Establishing Working Relationships that Transcend Jurisdictional Lines"

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Training for PL 280 Tribes: White Earth and the Federal Re-Assumption Provisions of TLOA

January 9, 2014

Federal Re-Assumption of Criminal Jurisdiction under the TLOA: The White Earth Experience on January 31, 2014 in San Diego, California.

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New Mexico Tribal-State Judicial Consortium Wins Outstanding Criminal Justice Program Award

November 26, 2013

Given out annually, this award recognizes one of the longest lasting tribal-state court forums in the country.

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Indian Law and Order Commission Report Released

November 12, 2013

The Indian Law and Order Commission traveled around the country for two years to hear about criminal jurisdiction, tribal courts, grant funding and other topics. The result is a 324-page report that addresses gaps in public safety in Indian country.

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Guide to Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl Case Released

October 17, 2013

In a split 5-4 opinion by Justice Alito, with a strong dissent from Justice Sotomayor, the Court limited ICWA, but did not eliminate it.

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NCAI Statement on Budget Impasse

October 17, 2013

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has released the following statement regarding the budget impasse and the shutdown of the federal government.

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Comments in Support of the California Tribal Court/State Court Forum

August 5, 2013

Public comment is open for Proposed California Rule of Court, rule 10.60, which would formally establish the California Tribal Court/State Court Forum (forum) as a Judicial Council advisory committee.

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Madison County Votes to Approve Oneida Nation/New York State Agreement

June 6, 2013

The Madison County Board of Supervisors approved the sweeping casino and land deal between the Oneida Indian Nation and the state of New York.

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Tribal Courts Aim to Heal

May 6, 2013

Advocates for Native American survivors of intimate violence cheered when they won the right to prosecute non-Indian assailants in tribal court. That change came with a provision in the Violence Against Women Act earlier this year. On at least one slice of California sovereign tribal land, the change also means defendants will have to engage with a very different criminal justice system – one that is based on restorative justice.

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U.S. Supreme Court Oral Agruments in ICWA Case

April 16, 2013

The United States Supreme Court recently heard an Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (ICWA) adoption case involving a South Carolina couple who were ordered to turn over a 27-month-old girl to her biological father, a member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma.

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Implementation of the Expanded Jurisdiction Provisions of the VAWA: Resources Posted

April 8, 2013

Resources are now available from the April 5, 2013, NCAI/TLPI webinar on implementation of the Violence Against Women Act's expanded tribal jurisdiction provision.

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United States to Accept Concurrent Jurisdiction Over White Earth Reservation in Minnesota

March 18, 2013

First Assumption of Federal Jurisdiction Under Historic Tribal Law and Order Act The Department of Justice has granted a request by the White Earth Nation for the United States to assume concurrent criminal jurisdiction on the 1,300 square mile White Earth reservation in northern Minnesota.

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Arizona bill eyes creating a Native American county

February 12, 2013

State lawmakers have revived a decades-old plan to turn the Navajo and Hopi reservations into a separate county so the tribes can claim a share of state revenue.

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New Article Spotlight. The Commission on State Tribal Relations: Enduring Lessons in the Modern State-Tribal Relationship

September 13, 2012

This article, written by the founders of the Commission on State-Tribal Relations, traces the historical development of a new approach to state-tribal relations in the 1970’s, during a time of heightened tension between state and tribal governments.

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DOJ Publishes Final Rule on Assumption of Concurrent Federal Jurisdiction on PL280 Reservations

December 14, 2011

The final rule regarding assumption of concurrent federal criminal jurisdiction on PL-280 reservations was published today at 76 F.R. 76037 (Dec. 6, 2011). A copy of it can be found here.

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Federal Court Finds Interior Violates Self-Determination Act in Denying Public Safety Funds to Tribes in P.L. 280 States

November 1, 2011

In a decision from the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, the court ruled that the Bureau of Indian Affairs cannot deny law enforcement funding to tribes just because tribes are located within in a P.L. 280 state (decision only applies to tribes within the Eight Circuit).

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Governor Brown Establishes Tribal Advisor to Strengthen Communication, Collaboration with California’s Native American Tribes

September 29, 2011

SACRAMENTO – In order to strengthen communication and collaboration between California state government and Native American Tribes, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today issued an Executive Order establishing the position of Governor’s Tribal Advisor in the Office of the Governor. This position will serve as a direct link between the Governor’s Office and tribal governments on matters including legislation, policy and regulation. Governor Brown signed the Executive Order today while attending the TASIN All California Tribes Meeting at the Sheraton Hotel in Sacramento, CA.

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The Center for Court Innovation Releases Report on Tribal-State Collaboration

September 27, 2011

State and Tribal Courts: Strategies for Bridging the Divide is a 2011 publication from the Center for Court Innovation that provides a history and examples of specific initatives, experiments and collaborations between tribal and state courts. For the full report, see www.courtinnovation.org/sites/default/files/documents/StateAndTribalCourts.pdf.

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Nevada SCT Holds that Tribal-State Agreement Can Trump ICWA Exclusive Tribal Jurisdiction Provision

This appeal requires us to decide whether, under section 1919 of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), 25 U.S.C. §§ 1901-1963 (2006), a tribal-state agreement respecting child custody proceedings may vest a Nevada district court with subject matter jurisdiction to take a relinquishment of parental rights under circumstances where section 1911(a) of the ICWA, 25 U.S.C. § 1911(a), would otherwise lay exclusive jurisdiction with the tribal court. We conclude that the ICWA, in keeping with fundamental principles of tribal autonomy, allows for tribal-state agreements for concurrent jurisdiction even when the tribe would have exclusive jurisdiction absent an agreement. Therefore, we affirm.

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