In 2008, Congress created a $2 billion "emergency fund" for Indian Country law enforcement, public safety and water projects

Despite the significance of the investment, no money has ever been appropriated for the Emergency Fund for Indian Safety and Health. Without funds, the program will expire by the end of fiscal year 2012.

"Based on the U.S. Constitution, treaties with Indian tribes, and federal statutes, the United States has assumed a trust responsibility for the provision of public safety and health care to Indian people," a group of Senators said in a letter. "The Native American population, however, is facing a public safety and health crisis due, in large part, to a lack of federal funding."

The letter asks the Senate Budget Committee to put money into the fund.

Get the Story:
Senators urge funding for tribal law enforcement (The Rapid City Journal 4/19)

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