Establishes procedures state agencies and courts must follow in handling Indian child custody matters. Creates dual jurisdiction between states and tribes that defers heavily to tribal governments. Should a tribe decide to engage in casino gaming, this act requires the state to negotiate in good faith with the tribe to form a compact setting forth games, limits and other terms. While the U.S. government recognizes American Indian Tribes as sovereign nations, the U.S. congress is recognized by the courts as having the right to limit the sovereign powers of tribes. However, Congress must do so in definite terms and not by implication.
Tribes remain sovereign nations and possess self-government.
State governance is generally not permitted within reservations. This is only a general framework for understanding the unique relationship between the American Indian tribes, the federal government and the states. 8, clause 3. 18 U.S.C. Sec. Provides for general state jursidiction over law enforcement, juvenile justice and courts.