# DOJ Expands Tribal Access Program

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has expanded its Tribal Access Program (TAP) to include seven additional federally recognized Tribes, increasing participation to 159 Tribes and over 500 Tribal agencies. TAP facilitates secure access and exchange of critical crime data between Tribal governments and federal law enforcement systems, enhancing public safety and investigative capabilities in Indian Country. This expansion reflects DOJ's commitment to strengthening Tribal law enforcement infrastructure and improving data interoperability.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note increased demand for secure data exchange solutions and integration services supporting Tribal access to federal criminal justice information.
- The expansion may lead to new contract opportunities for IT vendors specializing in secure information sharing, identity verification, and background check systems tailored to Tribal needs.
- Agencies and contractors involved in public safety technology should evaluate how TAP enhancements impact system requirements and interoperability standards.
- Organizations serving Tribal governments can leverage this program's growth to offer specialized support services, training, and technology upgrades aligned with DOJ and FBI CJIS standards.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Public Safety, Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure, Cybersecurity
**Published:** September 18, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Criminal Justice Information Services Division (FBI CJIS)
- Office of the Chief Information Officer
- Office of Tribal Justice
- Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking (SMART)

### Key Quotes
> The Justice Department is pleased to continue its expansion of the Tribal Access Program, which equips Tribal governments with federal crime data to solve crimes, conduct background checks, and identify wanted predators.
> — Trent McCotter, Acting Deputy Attorney General

> It has allowed us to efficiently process fingerprints and obtain important background information regarding potential caregivers in a timely manner, which helps us provide safe and responsive services to our families.
> — Adrienne Haines, Social Services Program Manager, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community

### Sources
- [ Office of Public Affairs |  Justice Department Expands Tribal Access Program to Improve the Exchange of Critical Data with Federally Recognized Tribes | United States Department of Justice](https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-expands-tribal-access-program-improve-exchange-critical-data-federally-0) - DOJ