Commissioner of Indian Affairs Morris Thompson announced today that Indian communities and individuals would have an extended period of time to submit comments on proposed law enforcement standards for Indian reservations.
The proposed rules, which were published in the Federal Register February 18, with a deadline for comments of February 28, are being republished with a new deadline of April 18.
Commissioner Thompson said he wanted to encourage Indian people to express their views on these rules which will govern a basic service program in their communities."
The proposed rules establish personnel standards, guidelines concerning the use of firearms and requirements for training of police. Standards for detention or jail programs, including health and safety requirements, are also part of the rules.
The proposed rules would apply to law enforcement programs run directly by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and those conducted under contract with the Bureau. This would include programs contracted under the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act.
