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HB 545

Terry Act; enact

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sheila Jones

HB 545 enhances protections for missing and murdered indigenous persons by improving law enforcement reporting, fostering tribal collaboration, and boosting public awareness.

House Postponed
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Bill Summary · HB 545

Summary of HB 545: Revise Laws Related to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 545
Title: Revise laws related to missing and murdered indigenous persons
Status: Chapter Number Assigned
Introduced: December 08, 2024
Classification: Bill
Subject: Crimes, Indians

HB 545 aims to address the critical issue of missing and murdered indigenous persons (MMIP) by revising existing laws to enhance protections and improve responses to these cases. The bill seeks to create a more effective framework for law enforcement and community engagement in addressing the unique challenges faced by indigenous populations.

Key Provisions

  • Enhanced Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates that law enforcement agencies improve their reporting protocols for cases involving indigenous persons, ensuring timely and accurate data collection.
  • Collaboration with Tribal Authorities: It emphasizes the need for cooperation between state law enforcement and tribal authorities to ensure that cases are handled with cultural sensitivity and respect for tribal sovereignty.
  • Resource Allocation: The bill proposes the allocation of resources for training law enforcement personnel on the specific issues surrounding MMIP cases, including cultural competency and trauma-informed practices.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns: It includes provisions for public awareness initiatives aimed at educating communities about the prevalence of MMIP cases and the importance of reporting missing persons.

Impact

The passage of HB 545 is expected to have a significant impact on:
- Indigenous Communities: The bill directly addresses the concerns of indigenous populations, aiming to reduce the number of missing and murdered individuals and improve community trust in law enforcement.
- Law Enforcement Agencies: Agencies will be required to adapt their practices and protocols, which may involve additional training and resource allocation.
- Public Awareness: Increased awareness and education around MMIP issues may lead to greater community involvement and support for affected families.

Legislative Timeline

  • 2024-12-08: Bill introduced.
  • 2025-02-19: First reading and referral to the Judiciary Committee.
  • 2025-02-25: Bill passed by the House Judiciary Committee.
  • 2025-03-04: Bill passed the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • 2025-04-10: Senate Judiciary Committee approved the bill with amendments.
  • 2025-05-13: Signed by the Governor.
  • 2025-05-16: Chapter number assigned.

Sponsors

  • Primary Sponsor: Tyson Running Wolf

Related Bills

  • LC 2331: This bill replaces LC 2331, indicating a legislative effort to refine and improve upon previous proposals related to MMIP.

In summary, HB 545 represents a significant legislative effort to address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous persons through improved law enforcement practices, enhanced collaboration with tribal authorities, and increased public awareness.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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