U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) on July 14 sponsored bipartisan legislation that would provide public safety advancements to America’s Native Indian communities.
The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act, H.R. 8387, cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA), aims to improve the hiring and retention of tribal law enforcement officers to better protect native communities and help address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls.
“I have heard from tribes in central Washington and across the state about the challenges they face with recruiting and retaining tribal law enforcement officers,” Rep. Newhouse said. “My legislation will equip our tribal communities with the resources they need to keep all of our communities safe.”
If enacted, H.R. 8387 would authorize tribal officers acting under a 638 contract or compact to be considered federal law enforcement officers who could enforce federal law, provided they meet certain qualifications, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Newhouse’s office.
Additionally, H.R. 8387 would treat tribal law enforcement officers acting under a 638 contract or compact as federal law enforcement officers for purposes of other federal laws, including for benefits applicable to federal law enforcement officers for injury and death, retirement and pension benefits, the summary says.
The measure also would direct the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to implement procedures for credentialing tribal officers and for the U.S. Attorney General to coordinate training and reporting activities, states the bill summary.
“Central Washington is home to many qualified, dedicated law enforcement officers — both tribal and non-tribal — who are well-immersed and respected within their communities,” said Rep. Newhouse. “They have a shared interest in protecting families and local businesses, combating the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women, and addressing rising crime rates.”
H.R. 8387 is supported by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation; the Yakama Nation MMIWP Committee; the Chehalis Reservation; the Yakima County Sheriff; Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians; and the National Council of American Indians.