Congressman Dusty Johnson Highlights Tribal Rights, Youth Workforce, and Border Security

Johnson's weekly column covers legislative efforts to expand firearm access for tribal members, work opportunities for teens, and border security achievements.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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In his weekly column, Congressman Dusty Johnson discusses several key policy initiatives he is championing, including the Tribal Firearm Access Act to allow tribal IDs as acceptable identification for firearm purchases, the TEENS Act to expand work hours for 14- and 15-year-olds, and the administration's progress in securing the southern border and reducing fentanyl trafficking. Johnson also highlights the recognition of South Dakota native Royce Williams, a WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War veteran who received the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Why it matters

Johnson's legislative efforts aim to address longstanding inequities for tribal members, provide more workforce opportunities for youth, and build on the administration's border security achievements - all of which have significant implications for South Dakota and the broader region.

The details

The Tribal Firearm Access Act would ensure tribal IDs are accepted as valid identification for firearm purchases, addressing a current disparity where tribal members cannot use their tribal ID but can use a foreign passport. The TEENS Act would extend working hours and increase the weekly work limit for 14- and 15-year-olds, giving them more opportunities to develop skills and earn income. On border security, the administration has reported a 56% reduction in fentanyl crossing the southern border compared to 2024, and no illegal immigrant releases into the U.S. over the past nine months.

  • The Tribal Firearm Access Act was introduced by Johnson.
  • The TEENS Act was proposed by Johnson to expand work opportunities for youth.
  • The State of the Union address highlighted the administration's border security achievements in the past year.

The players

Congressman Dusty Johnson

A Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing South Dakota's at-large congressional district.

Royce Williams

A 100-year-old South Dakota native and naval aviator who served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, and received the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Marty Mechaley

The sheriff of Custer County, South Dakota, who was invited by Johnson to attend the State of the Union address.

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What they’re saying

“The Second Amendment should apply equally to all law-abiding Americans. Unfortunately, that hasn't held true for tribal members.”

— Congressman Dusty Johnson (dakotawarcollege.com)

“Royce Williams is a true American hero who served as a naval aviator in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. His act of heroism and resolve is commendable and embodies the South Dakota spirit of strength.”

— Congressman Dusty Johnson (dakotawarcollege.com)

What’s next

The judge in the Tribal Firearm Access Act case will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the legislation to move forward.

The takeaway

Johnson's legislative efforts demonstrate a commitment to expanding rights and opportunities for tribal members, youth, and strengthening border security - all of which have significant implications for South Dakota and the broader region.