Most tribes have asserted their authority to develop sex offender registries rather than cede jurisdiction to state governments.

In 2006, Congress passed the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act. A provision that was drafted without tribal consultation allows states to assert jurisdiction on reservations in order to monitor sex offenders.

Of 212 tribes that responded to the mandate, 198 adopted resolutions that prevent the state from encroaching on reservations, according to Stateline.org. But more than 200 tribes in six states weren't given that opportunity because the Adam Walsh Act automatically gives Public Law 280 states authority in Indian Country.

Tribes complained about the provision and persuaded the House to pass a bill to delay implementation of the law. The Senate never took up the measure because Republicans placed a hold on it.

Get the Story:
States to enforce molester law on tribal land (Stateline.org 5/15)

Relevant Laws:
Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act | Violence Against Women Act of 2005

Relevant Documents:
White House Fact Sheet: The Adam Walsh Child Protection And Safety Act Of 2006 | President Signs H.R. 4472, the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006

Minnesota Supreme Court Decision:
Minnesota v Peter John Jones (March 22, 2007)

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