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HELENA - President Obama signed the Tribal Law and Order Act back in July and now, the State of Montana is trying to figure out how it will affect tribal relations.

The Act touches on many issues including state and tribal jurisdictions, law enforcement, violence against women and drug and alcohol abuse.It also clarifies the roles of federal, state and tribal governments with respect to crimes committed in Indian country and lawmakers believe it will help reduce violent crime on the reservations.

The bill appropriates $1.1 billion, but local governments must apply for the majority of those funds.

"You will see lots of reference to grants available to both tribes, states, and other municipal units. So, a lot remains to be seen as to how much Montana obtains and what impact it has," explained Motnana Legislative Analyst Casey Barrs.

One big addition that the Act provides for is a prescription drug monitoring program on reservations. Learn more about the the Tribal Law and Order Act by clicking here.