Implementing Title IX of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization

The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA 2013) was signed into law on March 7, 2013. This Act amends existing federal laws and provides new tools for federal and tribal prosecutors dealing with domestic violence in Indian Country. Pursuant to VAWA 2013, tribes will be able to exercise their sovereign power to investigate, prosecute, convict, and sentence both Indians and non-Indians who assault Indian spouses or dating partners or violate a protection order in Indian country. VAWA 2013 also clarifies tribes’ sovereign power to issue and enforce civil protection orders against Indians and non-Indians. This session will address how VAWA 13 amended the following statutes; the Indian Civil Rights Act, the Full Faith and Credit Statute, and the Federal Assault Statute.