Tribal lawmakers push for creation of missing Indigenous people task force

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Tribal lawmakers testified Thursday on a bill creating a missing Indigenous people task force.

House Bill 1199 forms a 10-person group to better improve search operations for indigenous individuals. The members include the attorney general, the chief of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and a representative from all five tribal nations.

Supporters say a task force is needed to expedite the process to help murdered and missing indigenous persons.

“Together we can create a system of accountability, empower tribal nations, and restore faith in justice for families who have been waiting for far too long,” said Rep. Jayme Davis, D-Rolette.

“By approving this bill, we send a clear message to North Dakota’s tribal nations that their safety and well-being matter,” said Rep. Lisa Finley-Deville, D-New Town.

Similar task forces are operating in neighboring states.

The Senate Workforce Development Committee took no action.