Eight House Republicans introduced H.R.780, the Violence Against Indian Women Act, on Friday.

The bill recognizes tribal jurisdiction over non-Indians who commit domestic violence offenses on the reservation. Non-Indians will be able to take their case to federal court if necessary.

"The current law enforcement system for Native American women is broken,” said Rep. Darrel Issa (R-California), the main sponsor, in a press release. “Too many victims of domestic violence cannot get access to law enforcement during times of emergency and more will continue to suffer unless Congress acts. VAIWA fills this jurisdictional black hole so that appropriate police and courts can prevent and solve domestic abuse crimes in Indian tribal lands while still ensuring that the accused’s constitutional rights are protected.”

The bill was referred to the House Judiciary Committee and the House Natural Resources Committee.

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Republicans offer deal on American Indian courts, key obstacle to Violence Against Women Act (AP 2/20)

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