Tuesday, Nov 22 2011 5:25PM

Congress recently released the fiscal year 2012 Appropriations Conference Report for Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies. The report indicated that more than $90 million in funding for Department of Justice measures assisting tribal law enforcement was cut.

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) noted its concern regarding the reduced support for Native American programs, since federal and tribal law enforcement personnel already face difficulties.

According to NCAI, violent crime rates on reservations are more than 2.5-times the national average, and some face 20-times the national rate of violence or more. This includes crime perpetrated by non-native offenders who are immune to tribal prosecution. A statement by the organization notes the funding cuts could significantly reduce the effectiveness of programs which have shown promise since the passage of the Tribal Law and Order Act in 2010.

"We understand these are tight budget times but this is a failure of the worst kind," said Jefferson Keel, NCAI President. "Tribes and the federal government were finally working together to tackle major crime and security issues. Now the House and Senate have irresponsibly cut crime fighting efforts in communities that need it the most."

The Act reauthorized certain tribal justice programs and had provisions to improve law enforcement administration on tribal lands. According to the NCAI, it has already begun to have a positive impact on crime rates in some areas.

For further reference, check out this source: Native Congress of American Indians