Senator Marshall Calls for Full Funding of State and Local Law Enforcement Drug Interdiction Program

Washington - U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) is asking the Senate Appropriations Committee to fully fund the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, which works with state and local law enforcement offices across the U.S. to foster collaboration, share resources, and leverage expertise to keep communities safe.

This effort follows the release of President Trump's FY26 Budget, which calls for a 35% reduction in HIDTA funding, as well as the transfer of the program from the Office of National Drug Control Policy to the Department of Justice. Should this transfer and funding reduction occur, the Midwest HIDTA branch would lose approximately $5 million in annual resources and its ability to tailor strategies to regional needs. Both consequences would undermine the program's mission to effectively reduce the impact of drug trafficking.

"As the son of a police chief, the safety of all Americans will always be one of my top priorities," said Senator Marshall. "Our local law enforcement officers are the front lines of our battle against drug and human trafficking. The HIDTA program effectively utilizes local, state and federal resources to help law enforcement agencies better understand and combat threats and criminal activity in their communities."

"Continued funding for the HIDTA Program is critical to supporting state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies working to keep our communities safe and to ensuring a response tailored to the unique drug threats in each region," said Daniel Neill, Executive Director of the Midwest HIDTA. "It is equally important that HIDTA remain under ONDCP to preserve the neutrality, balance, and ability of Executive Boards to address drug threats specific to their communities. We appreciate Senator Marshall's leadership during this pivotal time."

This effort follows the release of President Trump's FY26 Budget, which calls for a 35% reduction in HIDTA funding, as well as the transfer of the program from the Office of National Drug Control Policy to the Department of Justice. Should this transfer and funding reduction occur, the Midwest HIDTA branch would lose approximately $5 million in annual resources and its ability to tailor strategies to regional needs - both consequences would undermine the program's ability to effectively reduce the impact of drug trafficking.

"Cutting HIDTA funding will weaken the ability of state, federal and local enforcement operations to stop the influx of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other illicit drugs that fuel addiction and violent crime," said KBI Director Tony Mattivi. "Without continued support, our communities will face increased risks from the spread of these substances and the influence of drug cartels."

"The Sheriffs of Kansas and the Kansas Sheriffs Association greatly appreciate Senator Marshall's efforts to fully fund the HIDTA program," said Scott Braun, Ellis County Sheriff and President of the Kansas Sheriffs' Association. "HIDTA substantially supports financially numerous drug task forces across Kansas who target the large-scale drug dealers in our State. This is a unique collaboration with local, state, and federal law enforcement in combating the illicit drug activity across Kansas."

"Midwest HIDTA is a valuable partner in assisting local and state law enforcement in their battle against illicit narcotics, particularly deadly fentanyl," said Chief Karl Oakman, Kansas City Police. "A budget cut will significantly set back the gains made to reduce fentanyl trafficking in middle America."

"The Midwest HIDTA program is a critical asset in our fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse in Kansas and beyond," said Courtney Leslie, President of the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police. "It provides essential resources and fosters collaboration among law enforcement agencies to combat the growing threat of illicit drug networks. Senator Marshall's commitment to fully funding this program highlights his dedication to the safety and well-being of our communities, and to protecting and reducing the flow of dangerous drugs across Kansas."

Background:

• There are 33 HIDTAs across the U.S. that incorporate counties from all 50 states.
• The Midwest HIDTA represents over 200 law enforcement personnel in Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, and North Dakota.
• The program operates under the Office of the National Drug Control Policy and helps deliver funding and expertise to local law enforcement agencies to combat domestic and international drug trafficking organizations.
• The goal of the Midwest HIDTA is to facilitate coordination between regional drug-control efforts to reduce drug trafficking and its harmful consequences.
• More than 90% of the Midwest HIDTA's funding is allocated directly to state and local law enforcement agencies.