Downing Applauds Passage Of Funds for Law Enforcement

Last week, U.S. Rep. Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following House passage of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026. The legislation includes nearly $3,629,000 in total funding for local priorities across Yellowstone, Lewis and Clark, Cascade and Toole counties which can be referenced in Division A and Division C of the bill’s Joint Explanatory Statement. Funded projects include the replacement of a critical piece of infrastructure in the Billings Bench Water Association’s canal system, upgraded crime scene and communications equipment for law enforcement, and detention center upgrades.

Passage of H.R. 6938 is a critical step in securing funding for the projects. Following approval by the full House of Representatives, the legislation must be approved by the Senate and signed into law by the president. Each member is limited in the number of projects they can submit, and the application process is extremely competitive. This is the first time in years that a Congressman from Montana’s Eastern District has advocated for community project funding.

“Montanans, not Washington bureaucrats, know best when it comes to addressing the needs of our communities,” Downing said. “These funding requests were submitted in close consultation with local stakeholders and promise to greatly expand law enforcement capabilities and critical infrastructure. If there’s money to be spent in Montana’s Second District, I’ll fight for every cent to deliver for my constituents.”

“While national trends show some violent crimes declining in major cities, our county has experienced significant strain on our existing detention infrastructure,” said Toole County Commissioner Terry Tomsheck. “Our current facility is operating well above the recommended 8085 percent capacity threshold for safe and effective facility management. The proposed new detention center will incorporate essential modern features including enhanced supervision capabilities, advanced security monitoring systems, improved safety measures, and specialized housing units.”