Law and Order on Indian Reservations, 39857-39863 [E8-15599]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
• Bureau of Indian Affairs
• Indian Affairs Bureau

[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 134 (Friday, July 11, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 39857-39863]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-15599]



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Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 134 / Friday, July 11, 2008 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 39857]]



DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Bureau of Indian Affairs

25 CFR Part 11

RIN 1076-AE67


Law and Order on Indian Reservations

AGENCY: Bureau of Indian Affairs, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This final rule amends the Bureau of Indian Affairs regulation 
governing the Courts of Indian Offenses (otherwise known as CFR Courts) 
and the Law and Order Code. CFR Courts administer justice where Indian 
tribes retain exclusive jurisdiction over Indians but where tribal 
courts have not been established to exercise that jurisdiction. This 
final rule updates the list of Indian tribes for which Courts of Indian 
Offenses are established and for which the law and order provisions of 
the regulations apply. This final rule also clarifies jurisdictional 
limitations; adds offenses for drug abuse, abuse of psychotoxic 
substances, child abuse, prostitution, and family violence; and 
increases maximum penalties for various offenses.

DATES: This rule is effective on August 11, 2008.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Joseph Little, Office of Justice 
Services, Bureau of Indian Affairs, 1001 Indian School Road, NW., 
Albuquerque, NM 87104. Telephone: (505) 563-3833.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background
II. Statutory Authority
III. Discussion of Comments Received on Proposed Rule
    A. Civil Jurisdiction
    B. Appointment of Magistrates
    C. Jury Panel
    D. List of Courts of Indian Offenses
    E. Thirty-Day Comment Period
    F. Compliance with Executive Order 13175
IV. Procedural Requirements
    A. Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Order 12866)
    B. Regulatory Flexibility Act
    C. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act
    D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    E. Takings Implication Assessment (Executive Order 12630)
    F. Federalism (Executive Order 13132)
    G. Civil Justice Reform (Executive Order 12988)
    H. Consultation With Indian Tribes (Executive Order 13175)
    I. Paperwork Reduction Act
    J. National Environmental Policy Act
    K. Information Quality Act
    L. Effects on the Energy Supply (Executive Order 13211)

I. Background

    This final rule amends 25 CFR part 11, the Bureau of Indian Affairs 
regulation governing the Courts of Indian Offenses (otherwise known as 
CFR Courts) and the Law and Order Code. CFR Courts administer justice 
where Indian tribes retain exclusive jurisdiction over Indians but 
where tribal courts have not been established to exercise that 
jurisdiction. Part 11 applies only to those tribes occupying the Indian 
country over which a Court of Indian Offense has jurisdiction. At any 
time, these tribes may adopt their own tribal court systems to replace 
the CFR courts by following the steps in 25 CFR 11.100(c) (which has 
not been affected by this final rule).
    The final rule updates the list of CFR courts. The final rule also 
addresses the need for additional offenses, which has become apparent 
as drug abuse and family violence have increasingly plagued Indian 
country, and the need for increased maximum penalty amounts. The final 
rule also makes several editorial changes to comply with the Plain 
Language Initiative, for example, by changing headings to question 
form. The Bureau of Indian Affairs published proposed revisions to 25 
CFR part 11 on December 19, 2007 (72 FR 71835).

II. Statutory Authority

    The authority to issue this amendment is vested in the Secretary of 
the Interior by 5 U.S.C. 301 and 25 U.S.C. 2 and 9, and 25 U.S.C. 13 
which authorize appropriations for ``Indian judges.'' This rule is 
published in the exercise of the rulemaking authority delegated by the 
Secretary of the Interior to the Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs in 
the Departmental Manual at 209 DM 8.

III. Discussion of Comments Received on Proposed Rule

    Three tribes submitted written statements during the 30-day comment 
period. One tribe submitted comments after expiration of the comment 
period; the Bureau entered these comments into the administrative 
record but, in accordance with Departmental policy, did not 
substantially rely on them in developing the final rule. Timely 
comments were submitted by: The Comanche Nation of Oklahoma; The 
Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma; and the Gaming Commission of the Cheyenne 
and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. The following discussion summarizes 
significant comments by these three tribes and the Bureau's responses.

A. Civil Jurisdiction

    Several tribes objected to the changes in section 11.116 which they 
claimed created ambiguity concerning the courts' jurisdiction in civil 
matters. The first concern was the proposed rule's change from 
providing jurisdiction in cases in which ``the defendant is an Indian'' 
to cases in which ``the claimant is an Indian.'' The Bureau agrees that 
the current rule's language providing jurisdiction in those cases in 
which the defendant is an Indian should be retained. As such, section 
11.116(a)(1) of the final rule reads: ``The defendant is an Indian.''
    The second concern was the ambiguity as to jurisdiction over claims 
against non-Indian defendants and counter-defendants. In particular, 
one commenter stated that the proposed rule provision allowing 
jurisdiction only by stipulation of the parties unnecessarily 
diminished civil jurisdiction of the CFR Court. The Bureau agrees. 
Section 11.116 (a)(2) will be changed to read: ``Other claims, 
including counterclaims, provided that at least one party is an 
Indian.'' This language complies with Supreme Court rulings on tribal 
jurisdiction.

B. Appointment of Magistrates

    Two tribes objected to changes in section 11.201(a) that call for 
``consultation'' with the tribe or tribes before appointing a 
magistrate rather than seeking ``confirmation by a majority vote of the 
tribal governing body.'' The Bureau has considered this

[[Page 39858]]

comment and is tabling this change. The final rule therefore does not 
include the proposed change to ``consultation,'' but instead retains 
current regulatory language requiring confirmation.

C. Jury Panel

    One tribe stated that changing section 11.414(c) to increase the 
jury panel from 8 to 12 residents may result in an undue hardship for 
courts serving rural or sparsely populated areas. The Bureau agrees. 
The Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968 (25 U.S.C. 1302) requires jury 
trials of not less than six (6) persons. The Bureau has determined that 
this is a reasonable standard for a court functioning in Indian 
country. Therefore, section 11.314 9(c) of the final rule reads, ``[a] 
jury must consist of not less than 6 residents of the vicinity in which 
the trial is held, selected from a list of eligible jurors * * *''

D. List of Courts of Indian Offenses

    The Comanche Nation specifically objected to section 11.100 
deleting ``(except Comanche Children's Court).'' The Bureau did not 
intend to interfere with the operation of the Comanche Children's 
Court, and has re-inserted that language into the final rule.

E. Thirty-Day Comment Period

    One tribe asserted that the thirty-day comment period was not 
sufficient and should be extended. The Bureau considered this request 
for extension and determined that the thirty-day comment period was 
sufficient. In making this determination, the Bureau considered the 
limited number of changes proposed, the limited number of potentially 
affected tribes, and the potential effect on those tribes. The Bureau 
also considered the fact that it received only one objection to the 
length of the comment period, and that the tribe that objected to the 
length of the comment period nevertheless provided comments on the 
proposed changes contained in the proposed rule.

F. Compliance With Executive Order 13175

    One tribe asserted that the proposed rule violated Executive Order 
13175 because the rule affects tribes that use CFR Courts as their 
tribal courts. The Bureau examined whether the revisions would have 
substantial direct effects on one or more Indian tribes and determined 
that they would not. The Bureau focused on those tribes occupying the 
Indian country over which a Court of Indian Offense has jurisdiction, 
in examining whether the proposed changes would have substantial direct 
effects. The Bureau examined each regulatory change for its effects on 
these tribes and found that, generally, the regulatory changes were 
merely updates, which would not substantially affect caseloads, require 
additional outlays, or otherwise substantially and directly affect 
these tribes. The Bureau also examined the relationship between the 
Federal Government and these tribes and the distribution of power 
between the Federal Government and these tribes, and determined that 
there was no substantial direct effect. Finally, the proposed and final 
rules have no effect on the ability of tribes subject to part 11 (i.e., 
occupying the Indian country over which a Court of Indian Offense has 
jurisdiction) to enact and obtain Secretarial approval of enforceable 
ordinances.

IV. Procedural Requirements

A. Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Order 12866)

    In accordance with the criteria in Executive Order 12866, this rule 
is not a significant regulatory action. OMB makes the final 
determination under Executive Order 12866.
    (a) This rule will not have an annual economic effect of $100 
million or adversely affect an economic sector, productivity, jobs, the 
environment, or other units of government. A cost-benefit and economic 
analysis is not required. The establishment of an average Court of 
Indian Offenses is estimated to cost less than $200,000 annually to 
operate. The cost associated with the operation of this court will be 
with the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
    (b) This rule will not create inconsistencies with other agencies' 
actions. The Department of the Interior through the Bureau of Indian 
Affairs has the sole responsibility and authority to establish Courts 
of Indian Offenses on Indian reservations.
    (c) This rule will not materially affect entitlements, grants, user 
fees, loan programs, or the rights and obligations of their recipients. 
The establishment of Court of Indian Offenses will not affect any 
program rights of any Indian tribe. Its primary function will be to 
administer justice for misdemeanor offenses within Indian country. The 
court's criminal jurisdiction will be limited to criminal offenses 
provided in 25 CFR part 11 and the Law and Order Code of Indian tribes 
as applicable.
    (d) This rule will not raise novel legal or policy issues. The 
Solicitor analyzed and upheld the Department of the Interior's 
authority to establish Courts of Indian Offenses in a memorandum dated 
February 28, 1935. The Solicitor found that authority to rest 
principally in the statutes placing supervision of Indians in the 
Secretary of the Interior, 25 U.S.C. 2 and 9, and 25 U.S.C. 13, which 
authorizes appropriations for ``Indian judges.'' The United States 
Supreme Court recognized the authority of the Secretary to promulgate 
regulations with respect to Courts of Indian Offenses in United States 
v. Clapox, 35 F. 575 (D. Ore. 1888).

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs, certifies 
that this rule will not have a significant economic effect on a 
substantial number of small entities as defined under the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). An initial Regulatory 
Flexibility Analysis is not required. Accordingly, a Small Entity 
Compliance Guide is not required. The amendment to 25 CFR part 
11.100(a) updates the list of Court of Indian Offenses with limited 
criminal jurisdiction over Indians within a limited geographical area 
of Indian country. Accordingly, there will be no impact on any small 
entities.

C. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    This rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small 
Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. This rule:
    (a) Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million 
or more. The establishment of an average Court of Indian Offenses is 
estimated to cost less than $200,000 per court to operate annually. The 
cost associated with the operation of these courts will be with the 
Bureau of Indian Affairs.
    (b) Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for 
consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, or local government 
agencies, or geographic regions. This is a court established primarily 
for the administration of misdemeanor justice for Indians located 
within the boundaries of Indian country and will not have any cost or 
price impact on any other entities in the geographical region.
    (c) Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, 
employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of 
U.S. based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises. These 
are courts established primarily for the administration of misdemeanor 
justice for Indians located within the boundaries of Indian country, 
and will not have an adverse impact on competition, investment, 
productivity, innovation, or the ability of U.S.-based

[[Page 39859]]

enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises.

D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    In accordance with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 
et seq.):
    (a) This rule will not ``significantly or uniquely'' affect small 
governments. A Small Government Agency Plan is not required. The 
establishment of a Court of Indian Offenses will not have jurisdiction 
to affect any rights of the small governments. Its primary function 
will be to administer justice for misdemeanor offenses within the 
boundaries of Indian country. Its jurisdiction will be limited to 
criminal offenses provided in 25 CFR part 11.
    (b) This rule will not produce a Federal mandate of $100 million or 
greater in any year; i.e., it is not a ``significant regulatory 
action'' under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

E. Takings Implication Assessment (Executive Order 12630)

    In accordance with Executive Order 12630, the rule does not have 
significant takings implication. A takings implication assessment is 
not required. The amendments to 25 CFR part 11 will establish Courts of 
Indian Offenses with limited criminal jurisdiction over Indians within 
a limited geographical area of Indian country.

F. Federalism (Executive Order 13132)

    In accordance with Executive Order 13132, the rule does not have 
significant Federalism effects. A Federalism assessment is not 
required. The Solicitor found that authority to rest principally in the 
statutes placing supervision of the Indians in the Secretary of the 
Interior, 25 U.S.C. 2 and 9; and 25 U.S.C. 13, which authorizes 
appropriations for ``Indian judges.'' The United States judiciary 
recognized the authority of the Secretary to promulgate regulations 
with respect to Courts of Indian Offenses in United States v. Clapox, 
35 F. 575 (D. Ore. 1888).

G. Civil Justice Reform (Executive Order 12988)

    In accordance with Executive Order 12988, the Office of the 
Solicitor has determined that the rule does not unduly burden the 
judicial system and meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) 
of the Order. The Solicitor analyzed and upheld the Department of the 
Interior's authority to establish Courts of Indian Offenses in a 
memorandum dated February 28, 1935. The Solicitor found that authority 
to rest principally in the statutes placing supervision of the Indians 
in the Secretary of the Interior, 25 U.S.C. 2 and 9; and 25 U.S.C. 13, 
which authorizes appropriations for ``Indian judges.'' The United 
States judiciary recognized the authority of the Secretary to 
promulgate regulations with respect to Courts of Indian Offenses in 
United States v. Clapox, 35 F. 575 (D. Ore. 1888). Part 11 also 
requires the establishment of an appeals court; hence, the judicial 
system defined in Executive Order 12988 will not normally be involved 
in this judicial process.

H. Consultation With Indian Tribes (Executive Order 13175)

    Under the criteria in Executive Order 13175, we have evaluated this 
rule and determined that it has no potential effects on federally 
recognized Indian tribes. The amendment to 25 CFR part 11 does not 
automatically apply to all federally recognized tribes; part 11 applies 
only when the establishment of the provisional Court of Indian Offenses 
is necessary until that tribe establishes a tribal court to provide for 
a law and order code and judicial system within the exterior boundaries 
of its Indian reservation. The Department of the Interior establishes a 
provisional court, to fulfill its trust responsibility towards tribal 
governments and complies with the unique government-to-government 
relationship that exists between the Federal Government and Indian 
tribes.

I. Paperwork Reduction Act

    This amendment to the regulation does not require information 
collection under the Paperwork Reduction Act.

J. National Environmental Policy Act

    We have analyzed this rule in accordance with the criteria of the 
National Environmental Policy Act and 516 DM. This rule does not 
constitute a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality 
of the human environment. An environmental impact statement/assessment 
is not required. The establishment of a Court of Indian Offenses 
conveys personal jurisdiction over the criminal misdemeanor actions of 
Indians with the exterior boundaries of Indian country.

K. Information Quality Act

    In developing this rule, we did not conduct or use a study, 
experiment, or survey requiring peer review under the Data Quality Act 
(Pub. L. 106-544).

L. Effects on the Energy Supply (Executive Order 13211)

    This rule does not have a significant effect on the nation's energy 
supply, distribution, or use as defined by Executive Order 13211.

List of Subjects in 25 CFR Part 11

    Courts, Indians--law, Law enforcement, Penalties.

    Dated: May 10, 2008.
Carl J. Artman,
Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs.

0
For the reasons set out in the preamble, the Bureau of Indian Affairs 
amends 25 CFR part 11 as set forth below.

PART 11--COURTS OF INDIAN OFFENSES AND LAW AND ORDER CODE

0
1. The authority citation for 25 CFR part 11 continues to read as 
follows:

     Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; R.S. 463; 25 U.S.C. 2; R.S. 465; 25 
U.S.C. 9; 42 Stat. 208; 25 U.S.C. 13; 38 Stat. 586; 25 U.S.C. 200.

0
2. Revise the heading of part 11 to read as set forth above.

0
3. Revise subpart A to read as follows:
Subpart A--Application; Jurisdiction
Sec.
11.100 Where are Courts of Indian Offenses established?
11.102 What is the purpose of this part?
11.104 When does this part apply?
11.106 Who is an Indian for purposes of this part?
11.108 How are tribal ordinances affected by this part?
11.110 How are tribal customs affected by this part?
11.112 [Reserved]
11.114 What is the criminal jurisdiction of the Court of Indian 
Offenses?
11.116 What is the civil jurisdiction of a Court of Indian Offenses?
11.118 What are the jurisdictional limitations of the Court of 
Indian Offenses?

Subpart A--Application; Jurisdiction


Sec.  11.100  Where are Courts of Indian Offenses established?

    (a) Unless indicated otherwise in this title, these Courts of 
Indian Offenses are established and the regulations in this part apply 
to the Indian country (as defined in 18 U.S.C. 1151 and by Federal 
court precedent) occupied by the following tribes:
    (1) Te-Moak Band of Western Shoshone Indians (Nevada);
    (2) Ute Mountain Ute Tribe (Colorado);
    (3) Tribes located in the former Oklahoma Territory (Oklahoma) that 
are listed in paragraph (b) of this section;
    (4) Tribes located in the former Indian Territory (Oklahoma) that 
are listed in paragraph (c) of this section;
    (5) Winnemucca Indian Tribe; and
    (6) Santa Fe Indian School Property, including the Santa Fe Indian 
Health Hospital, and the Albuquerque Indian

[[Page 39860]]

School Property (land held in trust for the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico).
    (b) This part applies to the following tribes located in the former 
Oklahoma Territory (Oklahoma):
    (1) Apache Tribe of Oklahoma;
    (2) Caddo Nation of Oklahoma;
    (3) Comanche Nation (except Comanche Children's Court);
    (4) Delaware Nation;
    (5) Fort Sill Apache Tribe of Oklahoma;
    (6) Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma;
    (7) Otoe-Missouria Tribe of Oklahoma; and
    (8) Wichita and Affiliated Tribes of Oklahoma.
    (c) This part applies to the following tribes located in the former 
Indian Territory (Oklahoma):
    (1) Choctaw Nation;
    (2) Seminole Nation;
    (3) Eastern Shawnee Tribe;
    (4) Miami Tribe;
    (5) Modoc Tribe;
    (6) Ottawa Tribe;
    (7) Peoria Tribe;
    (8) Quapaw Tribe; and
    (9) Wyandotte Nation.


Sec.  11.102  What is the purpose of this part?

    It is the purpose of the regulations in this part to provide 
adequate machinery for the administration of justice for Indian tribes 
in those areas of Indian country where tribes retain jurisdiction over 
Indians that is exclusive of State jurisdiction but where tribal courts 
have not been established to exercise that jurisdiction.


Sec.  11.104  When does this part apply?

    (a) The regulations in this part continue to apply to each tribe 
listed in Sec.  11.100 until either:
    (1) BIA and the tribe enter into a contract or compact for the 
tribe to provide judicial services; or
    (2) The tribe has put into effect a law-and-order code that 
establishes a court system and that meets the requirements of paragraph 
(b) of this section.
    (b) When a tribe adopts a legal code and establishes a judicial 
system, the tribe must notify the Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs 
or his or her designee. The law-and-order code must be adopted by the 
tribe in accordance with its constitution and by-laws or other 
governing documents.


Sec.  11.106  Who is an Indian for purposes of this part?

    For the purposes of the enforcement of the regulations in this 
part, an Indian is defined as a person who is a member of an Indian 
tribe which is recognized by the Federal Government as eligible for 
services from the BIA, and any other individual who is an ``Indian'' 
for the purposes of 18 U.S.C. 1152-1153.


Sec.  11.108  How are tribal ordinances affected by this part?

    The governing body of each tribe occupying the Indian country over 
which a Court of Indian Offenses has jurisdiction may enact ordinances 
which, when approved by the Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs or his 
or her designee:
    (a) Are enforceable in the Court of Indian Offenses having 
jurisdiction over the Indian country occupied by that tribe; and
    (b) Supersede any conflicting regulation in this part.


Sec.  11.110  How are tribal customs affected by this part?

    Each Court of Indian Offenses shall apply the customs of the tribe 
occupying the Indian country over which it has jurisdiction to the 
extent that they are consistent with the regulations of this part.


Sec.  11.112  [Reserved].


Sec.  11.114  What is the criminal jurisdiction of the Court of Indian 
Offenses?

    (a) Except as otherwise provided in this title, each Court of 
Indian Offenses has jurisdiction over any action by an Indian 
(hereafter referred to as person) that is made a criminal offense under 
this part and that occurred within the Indian country subject to the 
court's jurisdiction.
    (b) No person may be prosecuted, tried or punished for any offense 
unless the complaint is filed within 5 years after the offense is 
committed.


Sec.  11.116  What is the civil jurisdiction of a Court of Indian 
Offenses?

    (a) Except as otherwise provided in this title, each Court of 
Indian Offenses has jurisdiction over any civil action arising within 
the territorial jurisdiction of the court in which:
    (1) The defendant is an Indian; or
    (2) Other claims, provided at least one party is an Indian.
    (b) Any civil action commenced in a Court of Indian Offenses is 
barred unless the complaint is filed within 3 years after the right of 
action first accrues.


Sec.  11.118  What are the jurisdictional limitations of the Court of 
Indian Offenses?

    (a) A Court of Indian Offenses may exercise over a Federal or State 
official only the same jurisdiction that it could exercise if it were a 
tribal court. The jurisdiction of Courts of Indian Offenses does not 
extend to Federal or State employees acting within the scope of their 
employment.
    (b) A Court of Indian Offenses may not adjudicate an election 
dispute, take jurisdiction over a suit against a tribe, or adjudicate 
any internal tribal government dispute, unless the relevant tribal 
governing body passes a resolution, ordinance, or referendum granting 
the court jurisdiction.
    (c) In deciding who is a tribal official, BIA will give deference 
to a decision of the Court of Indian Offenses, acting as a tribal forum 
by resolution or ordinance of a tribal governing body under paragraph 
(b) of this section.
    (d) A tribe may not be sued in a Court of Indian Offenses unless 
its tribal governing body explicitly waives its tribal immunity by 
tribal resolution or ordinance.

Subpart B--Courts of Indian Offenses; Personnel; Administration

0
3A. In Sec.  11.200, revise the section heading and paragraph (c) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  11.200  What is the composition of the Court of Indian Offenses?

* * * * *
    (c) Appeals must be heard by a panel of magistrates who were not 
involved at the tribal/trial level.
* * * * *

0
4. In Sec.  11.201, revise the section heading to read as follows:


Sec.  11.201  How are magistrates for the Court of Indian Offenses 
appointed?

* * * * *

0
5. In Sec.  11.202, revise the section heading to read as follows:


Sec.  11.202  How is a magistrate of the Court of Indian Offenses 
removed?

* * * * *

0
6. In Sec.  11.203, revise the section heading to read as follows:


Sec.  11.203  How are the clerks of the Court of Indian Offenses 
appointed and what are their duties?

* * * * *

0
7. In Sec.  11.205, revise the section heading to read as follows:


Sec.  11.205  Are there standards for the appearance of attorneys and 
lay counselors?

* * * * *

0
8. In Sec.  11.206, revise the section heading to read as follows:


Sec.  11.206  Is the Court of Indian Offenses a court of record?

* * * * *

0
9. In Sec.  11.207, revise the section heading to read as follows:

[[Page 39861]]

Sec.  11.207  What are the responsibilities of Bureau of Indian Affairs 
employees?

* * * * *

0
10. In Sec.  11.208, revise the section heading to read as follows:


Sec.  11.208  May Individual Indian Money accounts be used for payment 
of judgments?

* * * * *

0
11. In Sec.  11.209, revise the section heading to read as follows:


Sec.  11.209  How does the Court of Indian Offenses dispose of fines?

* * * * *

Subpart C--Criminal Procedure

0
12. In Sec.  11.314, redesignate paragraphs (c) through (e) as 
paragraphs (d) through (f), revise paragraphs (a) and (b), and add a 
new paragraph (c), to read as follows:


Sec.  11.314  Jury trials.

    (a) A defendant has a right, upon demand, to a jury trial in any 
criminal case:
    (1) That is punishable by a maximum sentence of one year 
incarceration; or
    (2) In which the prosecutor informs the court before the case comes 
to trial that a jail sentence will be sought.
    (b) If the prosecutor informs the court that no sentence of 
incarceration will be sought, the court may not impose a sentence of 
incarceration for the offense.
    (c) A jury must consist of not less than six residents of the 
vicinity in which trial is held, selected from a list of eligible 
jurors prepared each year by the court.
    (1) An eligible juror must:
    (i) Be at least 18 years of age;
    (ii) Not have been convicted of a felony; and
    (iii) Be otherwise qualified according to standards established by 
the Court of Indian Offenses under its general rulemaking authority.
    (2) Any party may challenge without cause a maximum of three 
members of the jury panel chosen under this section.
* * * * *

0
13. In Sec.  11.315, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  11.315  Sentencing.

    (a) Any person who has been convicted in a Court of Indian Offenses 
of a criminal offense under the regulations of this part may be 
sentenced to one or a combination of the following penalties:
    (1) Imprisonment for a period up to the maximum permitted by the 
section defining the offense, but in no case for longer than one year; 
and
    (2) A fine in an amount up to the maximum permitted by the section 
defining the offense, but in no case greater than $5,000.
* * * * *

Subpart D--Criminal Offenses

0
14. Revise Sec.  11.450 to read as follows:


Sec.  11.450  Maximum fines and sentences of imprisonment.

    A person convicted of an offense under the regulations in this part 
may be sentenced as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Type of offense                                    Maximum allowable sentence
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Misdemeanor.................  Up to 1 year in prison, or a fine of up to $5,000, or both.
(b) Petty misdemeanor...........  Up to 6 months in prison, or a fine of up to $2,500, or both.
(c) Violation...................  Up to 3 months in prison, or a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


0
15. Add new Sec. Sec.  11.451 through 11.454 to read as follows:


Sec.  11.451  Abuse of psychotoxic chemical solvents.

    (a) It is unlawful to:
    (1) Intentionally smell or inhale the fumes of any psychotoxic 
chemical solvent or possess, purchase, or attempt to possess or 
purchase any psychotoxic chemical solvent, for the purpose of causing 
intoxication, inebriation, excitement, stupefaction, or the dulling of 
the brain or nervous system; or
    (2) Sell, give away, dispense, or distribute, or offer to sell, 
give away, dispense, or distribute, any psychotoxic chemical solvent 
knowing or believing that the purchaser or another person intends to 
use the solvent in violation of this section.
    (b) This section does not apply to inhalation of anesthesia for 
medical or dental purposes.
    (c) As used in this section, ``psychotoxic chemical solvent'' means 
any glue, gasoline, paint, hair spray, Lysol, or other substance 
containing one or more of the following chemical compounds:
    (1) Acetone and acetate;
    (2) Benzene;
    (3) Butyl-alcohol;
    (4) Methyl ethyl;
    (6) Peptone;
    (7) Pentachlorophenol;
    (8) Petroleum ether; or
    (9) Any other chemical substance the inhalation of whose fumes or 
vapors can cause intoxication, inebriation, excitement, stupefaction, 
or the dulling of the brain or nervous system.
    (d) The statement listing the contents of a substance packaged in a 
container by the manufacturer or producer thereof is rebuttable proof 
of the contents of the substance without further expert testimony if it 
reasonably appears that the substance in the container is the same 
substance placed therein by the manufacturer or producer.
    (e) Abuse of psychotoxic chemical solvents, as defined in this 
section, is punishable as a petty misdemeanor, and the court may order 
any person using psychotoxic chemical solvents as described in 
paragraph (a) of this section to be committed to a facility for 
treatment for up to 6 months.
    (f) Psychotoxic chemical solvents kept or used in violation of this 
section are declared contraband. Upon proof of a violation, these 
solvents must be forfeited to the Federal government by order of the 
court, following public notice and an opportunity for any person 
claiming an interest in the solvents to be heard.


Sec.  11.452  Possession of a controlled substance.

    (a) It is unlawful for a person to knowingly or intentionally 
possess any controlled substance listed in 21 CFR Part 1308, as 
amended, unless:
    (1) The Controlled Substances Act or Drug Enforcement Agency 
regulations specifically authorizes possession of the substance;
    (2) The substance or preparation is excluded or exempted by 21 CFR 
1308.21 through 1308.35, as amended; or
    (3) The provisions of 42 U.S.C. 1996a (regarding traditional Indian 
religious use of peyote) apply.
    (b) Violations of paragraph (a) of this section are punishable as a 
misdemeanor.
    (c) Any controlled substance involved in violation of this section 
is declared to be contraband. Upon proof of a violation of this 
section, the controlled substance must be forfeited to the Federal 
Government by order of the court, after public notice and an 
opportunity for any person claiming an interest in the substance to be 
heard.

[[Page 39862]]

    (d) Any personal property used to transport, conceal, manufacture, 
cultivate, or distribute a controlled substance in violation of this 
section is subject to forfeiture to the Federal Government by order of 
the court upon proof of this use, following public notice and 
opportunity for any person claiming an interest in the property to be 
heard.


Sec.  11.453  Prostitution or solicitation.

    A person who commits prostitution or solicitation or who knowingly 
keeps, maintains, rents, or leases, any house, room, tent, or other 
place for the purpose of prostitution is guilty of a misdemeanor.


Sec.  11.454  Domestic violence.

    (a) A person who commits domestic violence by inflicting physical 
harm, bodily injury, or sexual assault, or inflicting the fear of 
imminent physical harm, bodily injury, or sexual assault on a family 
member, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
    (b) For purposes of this section, a family member is any of the 
following:
    (1) A spouse;
    (2) A former spouse;
    (3) A person related by blood;
    (4) A person related by existing or prior marriage;
    (5) A person who resides or resided with the defendant;
    (6) A person with whom the defendant has a child in common; or
    (7) A person with whom the defendant is or was in a dating or 
intimate relationship.

0
16. Revise Sec.  11.500 to read as follows.


Sec.  11.500  Law applicable to civil actions.

    (a) In all civil cases, the Magistrate of a Court of Indian 
Offenses shall have discretion to apply:
    (1) Any laws of the United States that may be applicable;
    (2) Any authorized regulations contained in the Code of Federal 
Regulations; and
    (3) Any laws or customs of the tribe occupying the area of Indian 
country over which the court has jurisdiction that are not prohibited 
by Federal laws.
    (b) The delineation in paragraph (a) of this section does not 
establish a hierarchy relative to the applicability of specific law in 
specific cases.
    (c) Where any doubt arises as to the customs of the tribe, the 
court may request the advice of counselors familiar with those customs.
    (d) Any matters that are not covered by the laws or customs of the 
tribe, or by applicable Federal laws and regulations, may be decided by 
the Court of Indian Offenses according to the laws of the State in 
which the matter in dispute lies.

0
17. Add a new subpart L to read as follows:
Subpart L--Child Protection and Domestic Violence Procedures
Sec.
11.1200 Definitions.
11.1202 How to petition for an order of protection.
11.1204 Obtaining an emergency order of protection.
11.1206 Obtaining a regular (non-emergency) order of protection.
11.1208 Service of the protection order.
11.1210 Duration and renewal of a regular protection order.
11.1212 Consequences of disobedience or interference.
11.1214 Relationship of this part to other remedies.

Subpart L--Child Protection and Domestic Violence Procedures


Sec.  11.1200  Definitions.

    For purposes of this subpart:
    Domestic violence means to inflict physical harm, bodily injury, or 
sexual assault, or the fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, 
or sexual assault on a family member.
    Family member means any of the following:
    (1) A spouse;
    (2) A former spouse;
    (3) A person related by blood;
    (4) A person related by existing or prior marriage;
    (5) A person who resides or resided with the defendant;
    (6) A person with whom the defendant has a child in common; or
    (7) A person with whom the defendant is or was in a dating or 
intimate relationship.
    Parent means persons who have a child in common, regardless of 
whether they have been married or have lived together at any time.


Sec.  11.1202  How to petition for an order of protection.

    A victim of domestic violence, or the parent, guardian of a victim, 
or a concerned adult may petition the court under this subpart for an 
order of protection.
    (a) The petition must be made under oath or accompanied by a sworn 
affidavit setting out specific facts describing the act of domestic 
violence.
    (b) The petitioner is not required to file for annulment, 
separation, or divorce in order to obtain an order of protection. 
However, the petition should state whether any legal action is pending 
between the petitioner and the respondent.
    (c) The Court may develop simplified petition forms with 
instructions for completion and make them available to petitioners not 
represented by counsel. Law enforcement agencies may keep the forms on 
hand and make them available upon request to victims of domestic 
violence.


Sec.  11.1204  Obtaining an emergency order of protection.

    (a) When a victim files a petition for an order of protection under 
Sec.  11.202(a), the court may immediately grant an ex parte emergency 
order of protection if the petition clearly shows that an act of 
domestic violence has occurred. The order must meet the content 
requirements of Sec.  11.206 (a) and (b).
    (b) If the court does not immediately grant an emergency order of 
protection under paragraph (a) of this section, the court must either:
    (1) Within 72 hours after the victim files a petition, serve notice 
to appear upon both parties and hold a hearing on the petition for 
order of protection; or
    (2) If a notice of hearing cannot be served within 72 hours, issue 
an emergency order of protection.
    (c) If the court issues an ex parte emergency order of protection 
under paragraph (a) of this section, it must within 10 days hold a 
hearing on the question of continuing the order. If notice of hearing 
cannot be served within 10 days:
    (1) The emergency order of protection is automatically extended for 
10 days; and
    (2) If after the 10-day extension, notice to appear cannot be 
served, the emergency order of protection expires.
    (d) If the court issues an ex parte emergency order of protection 
under paragraph (b)(2) of this section, it must cause the order to be 
served on the person alleged to have committed a family violence act 
and seek to hold a hearing as soon as possible. If a hearing cannot be 
held within 10 days, the petitioner may ask the court to renew the 
emergency protection order.


Sec.  11.1206  Obtaining a regular (non-emergency) order of protection.

    Following a hearing and finding that an act of domestic violence 
occurred, the court may issue an order of protection. The order must 
meet the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section and may meet the 
requirements of paragraph (b) of this section. Either party may request 
a review hearing to amend or vacate the order of protection.
    (a) The order of protection must do all of the following:
    (1) Specifically describe in clear language the behavior the court 
has ordered he or she do or refrain from doing;

[[Page 39863]]

    (2) Give notice that violation of any provision of the order of 
protection constitutes contempt of court and may result in a fine or 
imprisonment, or both; and
    (3) Indicate whether the order of protection supersedes or alters 
prior orders pertaining to matters between the parties.
    (b) The order of protection may do any of the following:
    (1) Order the person who committed the act of domestic violence to 
refrain from acts or threats of violence against the petitioner or any 
other family member;
    (2) Order that the person who committed the act of domestic 
violence be removed from the home of the petitioner;
    (3) Grant sole possession of the residence or household to the 
petitioner during the period the order of protection is effective, or 
order the person who has committed an act of domestic violence to 
provide temporary suitable alternative housing for the petitioner and 
other family members to whom the respondent owes a legal obligation of 
support;
    (4) Award temporary custody of any children involved when 
appropriate and provide for visitation rights, child support, and 
temporary support for the petitioner on a basis which gives primary 
consideration to the safety of the petitioner and other household 
members;
    (5) Order the person who is found to have committed an act of 
domestic violence not to initiate contact with the petitioner;
    (6) Restrain the parties from transferring, concealing, 
encumbering, or otherwise disposing of one another's property or the 
joint property of the parties except in the usual course of business or 
for the necessities of life, and order the parties to account to the 
court for all such transferring, encumbrances, and expenditures made 
after the order is served or communicated; and
    (7) Order other injunctive relief as the court deems necessary for 
the protection of the petitioner, including orders to law enforcement 
agencies as provided by this subpart.


Sec.  11.1208  Service of the protection order.

    When an order of protection is granted under this subpart:
    (a) The petitioner must file it with the clerk of the court;
    (b) The clerk of the court must send a copy to a law enforcement 
agency with jurisdiction over the area in which the court is located;
    (c) The order must be personally served upon the respondent, unless 
the respondent or his or her attorney was present at the time the order 
was issued; and
    (d) If the court finds the petitioner unable to pay court costs, 
the order will be served without cost to the petitioner.


Sec.  11.1210  Duration and renewal of a regular protection order.

    An order of protection granted by the court:
    (a) Is effective for a fixed period of time, which is up to a 
maximum of 6 months; and
    (b) May be extended for good cause upon motion of the petitioner 
for an additional period of up to 6 months each time a petition is 
presented. A petitioner may request as many extensions as necessary 
provided that the court determines that good cause exists.


Sec.  11.1212  Consequences of disobedience or interference.

    Any willful disobedience or interference with any court order 
constitutes contempt of court which may result in a fine or 
imprisonment, or both, in accordance with this part.


Sec.  11.1214  Relationship of this subpart to other remedies.

    The remedies provided in this subpart are in addition to the other 
civil or criminal remedies available to the petitioner.

 [FR Doc. E8-15599 Filed 7-10-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-4J-P