Thune seeks commitment for public safety fund

Law | Politics

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Sen. John Thune (R-Alaska) is asking Congress to live up to its promise to provide $2 billion for Indian Country.

Last year, Thune led the push to create the Emergency Fund for Indian Safety and Health. Congress authorized $2 billion in public safety, health and water projects between 2009 and 2013.

But Congress has not put money into the fund so far. President Barack Obama didn't include it in his fiscal year 2010 budget either.

As part of H.R.2996, the fiscal year 2010 Interior appropriations bill, the Senate Appropriations Committee added $100 million for Indian Country programs. But the money won't actually be put into the fund, where Thune said it will have the most impact.

"The Emergency Fund for Indian Safety and Health is the best way to address the financial shortage that exists in addressing the most pressing public safety, health, and water needs in many tribal communities in South Dakota and across the nation," said Thune in a press release. "Increased law enforcement efforts in tribal communities in South Dakota have yielded positive results, but continued success will be difficult without adequate resources. The public safety crisis that exists in many tribal areas has not been satisfactorily addressed, and acting quickly to put money in the Emergency Fund for Safety and Health is a way to combat the growing crime epidemic."

Thune introduced an amendment, Number 2503, on Tuesday to redirect $50 million to the fund. The Senate has yet to consider the amendment as part of the debate on the Interior bill.

Get the Story:
Press Release: Thune Introduces Indian Country Law Enforcement Amendment to Spending Bill (Sen. Thune 9/23)

2010 Interior and Environment Appropriations Bill:
- 2010 Bill and Report: HR 2996
- Bill Summary: As Passed by the House
- Bill Summary: As Passed by the Full Committee
- List of Programs Cut or Terminated in the Bill
- Full Committee Recorded Votes