Law
Tribal leader supports sharing of DWI records


A new law in New Mexico encourages tribes to share traffic-citation records with the state. But one tribal leader says that isn't enough.

Namb� Pueblo Gov. Tom Talache believes tribes should share drunk-driving records. Reservations, he says, have become "safe havens" for drunk drivers because tribes aren't obligated to inform the state about DWI infractions of tribal members and other Indians.

Bernie Teba, secretary-designate of the state Indian Affairs Department, says the new law enhances tribal sovereignty because the state would recognize tribal court actions. But some tribal leaders believe sharing information with the state compromises their sovereignty.

Get the Story:
Tribes Keep Records Secret for Fear of Sovereignty Challenge (The Santa Fe New Mexican 1/25)
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