Measure eyes improvement of tribal law enforcement

U.S. Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), and Sharice Davids (D-KS) are espousing the benefits of legislation that improves hiring and increase retention of tribal law enforcement officers.

The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act, which would also better protect native communities and help address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls (MMIW).

“Native tribes in Central Washington and across the nation are encountering significant barriers in recruiting and retaining law enforcement officers for their reservation lands,” Newhouse said. “While their communities are combating the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and high crime rates, they need to be well-equipped to protect families and local businesses. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will empower our law enforcement officers with the necessary resources to ensure the safety of both tribal and non-tribal communities.”

Bill provisions include authorizing tribal officers acting under a 638 contract or compact to be considered federal law enforcement officers and enforce federal law, provided they meet certain qualifications; treat tribal law enforcement officers acting under a 638 contract or compact as federal law enforcement officers for purposes of other federal laws; and providing for the Secretary of the Interior to implement procedures credentialing tribal officers and for the Attorney General to coordinate training and reporting activities.

“It’s important for the federal government to respect tribal sovereignty and strengthen public safety,” Kilmer said. “I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act with Representatives Newhouse and Davids so that we can take steps to improve the prevention, investigation, and prosecution of crimes in Indian Country – and ensure that Tribes across the region can recruit and retain the law enforcement officers they need to serve their communities.”