Bill To Boost Resources For Law Enforcement

As part of their continued efforts to support law enforcement officers and keep communities safe, U.S. Sens. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and John Hoeven (R-N.D.) have introduced bipartisan Assisting Narcotics and Trafficking Officers in Interdicting Drugs Act to support law enforcement efforts to combat the drug epidemic and boost border security.

The legislation would increase resources for three programs — High Intensity Drug Task Forces, Community Oriented Policing Services and Operation Stonegarden — that law enforcement rely on to keep communities safe. The bill also includes new language to cut red tape and ensure that smaller law enforcement agencies and those in rural communities have access to COPS grants.

“This legislation reauthorizes and strengthens three important programs that empower law enforcement at all levels of government to better combat the smuggling and sale of illegal drugs,” said Hoeven. “Doing so will help stop the flow of dangerous drugs across the border and into local communities, improving public safety across the country.”

“Police departments across Montana work hand-inhand with HIDTA taskforces and utilize Operations Stonegarden and COPS funding to support their mission of keeping our communities safe,” said Allen Fulton, Sheriff of Rosebud County and president of the Montana Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association. “These programs are critical resources that help Montana law enforcement officers keep fentanyl and other dangerous drugs off our streets and secure the northern border.”