Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson has joined as a cosponsor of the bipartisan Protection for Reservation Occupants Against Trafficking and Evasive Communications Today (PROTECT) Act. This legislative measure aims to expand Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction (STCJ), enabling tribal nations to prosecute non-Native offenders involved in drug trafficking. Additionally, it grants tribal courts the authority to execute warrants for electronic materials, enhancing their ability to combat drug traffickers and other criminals. The bill is sponsored by Representatives Ryan Zinke from Montana and Rick Larsen from Washington.
“The growing drug threat and deadly fentanyl crisis have devastated Indian Country,” stated Representative Simpson. “Giving Tribal communities and law enforcement the tools and resources they need to protect their people is a common sense approach to tackling this crisis. One of my top priorities as Chairman of the House Appropriations Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee has been addressing Tribal needs, including bolstering public safety. I firmly believe that between President Trump’s efforts to secure the southern border and this legislation, we can help combat the spread of dangerous, illegal drugs in Indian Country.”
In addition to the House version of the bill, U.S. Senators Steve Daines from Montana and Tina Smith from Minnesota have introduced companion legislation in the Senate.
The full text of the legislation is available for review.
