Does Native American law apply to tribal members or non-tribal members?
Native American law applies differently to tribal members and non-tribal members in Washington. The laws of Washington apply to all citizens, tribal or non-tribal. At the same time, tribal members are subject to the laws of their respective tribe. When issues concerning land, resources, or tribal members arise, the federal government applies Native American law. Tribal members have the right to self-governance, meaning they can create and enforce their own laws. These laws can address political, social, and cultural issues, as well as matters such as hunting and fishing rights, land ownership, and education. Non-tribal members living on an Indian reservation are usually subject to the laws of the tribe unless they are specifically exempted. Non-tribal members can also be subject to Native American law if they have engaged in activities on tribal land. For example, Native American law may dictate the manner in which non-tribal members use, or interact with, tribal resources, such as land, water, or plants. In Washington, Native American law applies primarily to tribal members, but can extend to non-tribal members depending on the circumstances. Therefore, it is important for Native American tribal members and non-tribal members alike to be aware of their legal rights and responsibilities on tribal land.
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