Arizona tribes should receive homeland security funds directly from the federal government, a report from the 25th annual Arizona Indian Town Hall states.

Homeland security was the main topic of the town hall meeting last month. Tribal leaders said they aren't receiving a fair share of the $4 billion in security funds that flow to states and local communities.

Currently, tribes must ask states or counties for homeland security money. Of the $158.7 million given to Arizona since 2001, about $2.5 million has gone to tribes.

In a report [PDF], tribes endorsed a bill in Congress that would ensure they would receive the funds directly.

Get the Story:
Ariz. tribes seek security funding (The Arizona Republic 7/21)

Relevant Links:
Arizona Commission of Indian Affairs - http://www.indianaffairs.state.az.us

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