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Senators press nominee on tribal public safety, fentanyl and law‑enforcement funding
Summary
Several senators told nominee William "Billy" Kirkland that public safety — including fentanyl trafficking, tribal law enforcement staffing and detention funding — is a top concern for tribes. Kirkland said he would work with tribes and the Department of the Interior to prioritize resources and seek solutions if confirmed.
WASHINGTON — Multiple senators urged William H. "Billy" Kirkland to make tribal public safety a top priority if confirmed as Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, citing fentanyl trafficking, understaffed tribal police forces and recent changes in BIA detention funding. Senator Steve Daines (as recorded in questioning) told Kirkland public safety is "the number one concern" he hears from tribal leaders in Montana and described cartel exploitation of jurisdictional gaps on reservations. Daines asked whether Kirkland would commit to working with him to enhance tribal law enforcement. Kirkland replied that law enforcement and public safety are a priority for the…
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