Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) has announced the House of Representatives passed H.R. 6938, a funding bill that includes nearly $3.63 million for projects in Yellowstone, Lewis and Clark, Cascade, and Toole Counties. The appropriations are aimed at local infrastructure and law enforcement improvements.
The bill’s funding covers several initiatives. These include replacing part of the Billings Bench Water Association’s canal system, purchasing upgraded crime scene and communications equipment for law enforcement agencies, and making upgrades to detention centers in multiple counties.
Passage of H.R. 6938 marks a significant step forward but is not final; the legislation still requires Senate approval and must be signed by the President before becoming law. Each congressional member is limited in the number of project requests they can submit due to a competitive application process. According to Downing’s office, this is the first time in years that Montana’s Eastern District has had such advocacy for community project funding.
“Montanans, not Washington bureaucrats, know best when it comes to addressing the needs of our communities,” said Congressman Downing.“These funding requests were submitted in close consultation with local stakeholders and promise to greatly expand law enforcement capabilities and critical infrastructure. If there’s money to be spent in Montana’s Second District, I’ll fight for every cent to deliver for my constituents.”
Billings Mayor Mike Nelson thanked Downing for his role in securing funds for water infrastructure: “The City of Billings sincerely thanks Congressman Downing for his leadership in securing funding for the Canyon Creek Flume project in legislation currently under consideration by the House of Representatives,” said Nelson. “This project is vital to the long-term resilience of Billings’ water system, and the federal investment he championed will help protect and strengthen our infrastructure for decades to come.”
Great Falls Police Department Captain Brian Black highlighted how new equipment will aid investigations: “Great Falls is safer when law enforcement has the right tools,” said Black.“Thanks to appropriations funding through the U.S. Department of Justice, we now have this advanced equipment to help investigators bring clarity to complex cases, protect victims, and keep our community safe and strong.”
Detective Sergeant Joe Dusatko from Great Falls PD added: “Every major crime scene requires meticulous documentation,” said Dusatko. “Great Falls is fortunate to have a team of talented and capable investigators, and this equipment aids in their efforts to ensure an objective, precise, and complete record of a crime. This protects case integrity and provides the County Attorney’s Office with the most accurate information, so they may present the strongest possible case.”
Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter also commented on investigative benefits: “This equipment is a force multiplier and greatly helps our investigations,” said Slaughter.“It creates accurate depictions of complex crimes scenes that provide the necessary evidence in court. I would like to thank Congressman Downing for advocating for our community.”
Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton spoke about communication challenges faced by first responders: “Thank you Congressman Downing and the US Congress for recognizing the criticality of public safety communication,” said Dutton. “Montana’s beautifully created topography can be an unforgiving barrier for vital communications. This appropriation will aid our first responders in calling for back up and allow search and rescue and paramedics to communicate in this rugged terrain. For law enforcement, that can be longer than a hour and a half. We are thankful you are willing to help save lives. Please give this critical funding a do pass.”
Toole County Commissioner Terry Tomsheck noted strain on existing detention facilities: “While national trends show some violent crimes declining in major cities, our county has experienced significant strain on our existing detention infrastructure,” said Tomsheck. “Our current facility is operating well above the recommended 80-85% capacity threshold for safe and effective facility management. The proposed new detention center will incorporate essential modern features including enhanced supervision capabilities, advanced security monitoring systems, improved safety measures, and specialized housing units. The safety of our community and the proper treatment of those in custody depend on this critical infrastructure investment.”
Yellowstone County Commissioner Mike Waters addressed detention capacity needs: “Yellowstone County has long been in need of additional detention capacity to hold the criminals that threaten our communities accountable,” said Waters.“In certain circumstances, law enforcement lacks the resources to detain the perpetrators of lesser offenses like misdemeanors. The Yellowstone County Short Term Detention Facility will help to address this problem, and the funding that Congressman Downing advocated for will provide the facility with the tools to ensure justice can be served.”
Projects funded by H.R. 6938 include:
– $1 million toward replacing Canyon Creek flume as part of Billings’ water system.
– $128,686 allocated for laser scanner technology at Great Falls Police Department.
– $500,000 dedicated toward interoperable satellite communications systems at Lewis & Clark County Sheriff’s Office.
– $1.5 million directed at renovating Toole County’s detention facility.
– $500,000 supporting construction needs at Yellowstone County’s short-term detention facility.