The bill H. 5059 aims to officially recognize the Catawba Nation Police Department as a law enforcement agency in South Carolina by adding Chapter 53 to Title 23 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. It affirms the current powers and duties of the department, establishes qualifications for its officers, and allows the department to enter into mutual aid agreements with other law enforcement agencies. The bill outlines the jurisdiction of Catawba police officers, which includes enforcing tribal laws as well as state and federal laws on Catawba lands, and grants them the authority to arrest individuals outside of Catawba lands under specific circumstances.

Additionally, the bill specifies the training requirements for Catawba police officers, mandates that they be sworn officers, and provides them with the same legal protections and immunities as state and local law enforcement officers. It also includes provisions to prevent impersonation of Catawba police officers and outlines the processing of individuals arrested by them. The legislation emphasizes that it does not alter the inherent sovereignty of the Catawba Indian Nation or diminish the authority of other law enforcement agencies. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.