NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — Right now, congress is waiting to pass a new agreement that's expected to provide millions of dollars to benefit tribal law enforcement, including North Dakota. Known as the BADGES Act, the plan would allow the Bureau of Indian Affairs to conduct its own background checks when hiring. It would also increase Tribal access to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System or NamUs and provide more training so investigators could learn to use the system for investigations. Holding your focus while working around the holidays "This is not a new issue, but it is something that is important to different communities across the country. And so, our tribes in this region definitely will take a look at that and be part of the process if they can. But we really see this as an opportunity," said Brad Hawk, the executive director for the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission. The bill, which has passed in the Senate, opens up grant money for tribal agencies to apply for money to pay for training opportunities. Hoeven had sponsored the bill along with Nevada senator Catherine Cortez Masto. The bill remains in the House where it's awaiting a vote. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW