A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION, Urging the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) law enforcement to establish a law enforcement training academy in South Dakota.

WHEREAS, the state of South Dakota recognizes the critical role played by tribal law enforcement agencies in ensuring public safety and upholding the rule of law for all citizens; and

WHEREAS, BIA law enforcement is tasked with maintaining law and order within certain tribal communities in the state, playing a crucial role in fostering secure and thriving environments for Native American residents; and

WHEREAS, the state of South Dakota values collaboration between state and federal entities to enhance public safety initiatives and strengthen the capabilities of law enforcement agencies; and

WHEREAS, the establishment of a BIA law enforcement training academy in South Dakota would provide an opportunity to enhance the skills and training of law enforcement personnel serving Native American communities, thereby contributing to the overall safety and well-being of tribal members; and

WHEREAS, South Dakota is home to nine tribal nations, each with its unique heritage and law enforcement needs, making it an ideal location for a BIA law enforcement training academy that can tailor its programs to the specific challenges and nuances of the region; and

WHEREAS, the state of South Dakota is committed to supporting initiatives that promote professionalism, cultural sensitivity, and excellence in law enforcement to better serve and protect all residents:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the House of Representatives of the Ninety-Ninth Legislature of the State of South Dakota, the Senate concurring therein, that the Legislature urges the BIA to establish a law enforcement training academy in South Dakota; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Legislature encourage the BIA to collaborate with tribal leaders, state law enforcement agencies, and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the training programs offered at the academy address the unique needs and cultural context of the tribal communities in the region; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution be transmitted to the United States Secretary of the Interior, the South Dakota Congressional delegation, tribal leaders, and other relevant stakeholders to express the Legislature's strong support for the establishment of a BIA law enforcement training academy in the state.

Adopted by the House of Representatives, February 1, 2024

Concurred in by the Senate, February 22, 2024

_____________________ _____________________ Hugh Bartels Patricia Miller Speaker of the House Chief Clerk

_____________________ _____________________ Lee Schoenbeck Peggy Laurenz President Pro Tempore Secretary of the Senate

of the Senate