Rep. Dusty Johnson (R‑S.D.) and Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R‑Okla.) have introduced two bills aimed at expanding firearm access for tribal citizens and easing federal restrictions on tribal law enforcement.
The Tribal Firearm Access Act would allow federally recognized tribal IDs to be used for firearm purchases, treating them the same as state or federal identification. Johnson called the current rules inconsistent.
Mullin said the bill restores equal treatment for tribal members. The NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action and the National Shooting Sports Foundation both support the measure, saying it ensures fair access and accurate background checks.
The bill is cosponsored by Reps. Tracey Mann (R‑Kan.), Tom Cole (R‑Okla.), and Adrian Smith (R‑Neb.).
Johnson and Mullin also introduced the Tribal Police Department Parity Act, which removes federal barriers that apply only to tribal police departments without cross‑deputization agreements.
Johnson said the bill would give tribal law enforcement “equitable access to duty weapons.” It is cosponsored by Rep. Don Bacon (R‑Neb.).
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