Bill Would Open Federal Benefits to Tribal Officers
Legislation is introduced again to make it easier to hire and retain tribal law enforcement officers by classifying them as federal officers. The bill would open federal law enforcement retirement and disability benefits to those who serve in tribal law enforcement positions and also allow such officers to enforce federal law in their communities.
The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act was introduced by a bipartisan group of members in both houses. A prior version of the bill passed the House Committee on Natural Resources in 2024 but failed to advance further.
"I hear from law enforcement across Southwest Washington about how difficult it can be to recruit and retain officers, especially in rural communities. Our bipartisan legislation will cut down on administrative burdens and strengthen benefits for Tribal law enforcement—to ensure that sovereign Tribal Nations can keep their communities safe,” said Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), one of the cosponsors.
Here’s what the bill does:
Authorizes tribal officers acting under a 638 contract or compact to be considered federal law enforcement officers and enforce federal law as long as they meet certain qualifications. Such qualifications are similar to those required for Bureau of Indian Affairs officers.
Eliminates the need for Indian tribes to enter into Special Law Enforcement Commission (SLEC) agreements, which can be difficult to obtain.
Allows tribal officers access to the federal law enforcement benefits for death and injury, retirement, and pensions, offering additional incentives for recruitment.
Ensures that the U.S. Attorney General will ensure oversight and coordination of public safety activities in Indian communities.
“As the missing and murdered indigenous women crisis (MMIP) continues to plague tribal communities across the country, tribal law enforcement agencies are facing serious challenges with recruiting and retaining officers and resources,” said Representative Dan Newhouse (R-WA), another cosponsor. “This bipartisan legislation empowers tribal law enforcement to build and maintain strong, well-trained forces who will be far better equipped to address the MMIW crisis, counter illicit drug flow, and protect tribal communities in Central Washington.”
The bill has garnered support from groups including the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). It notes that giving tribal officers the ability to enforce federal law has the “potential to significantly impact the effectiveness of law enforcement and the safety of our communities.”