SC Alaska News

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, representing Alaska and serving as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, along with U.S. Senator Brian Schatz from Hawaii, who is the Vice Chairman of the Committee, led an oversight hearing to discuss the priorities of Native communities for the 119th Congress.

Chairman Murkowski emphasized the importance of listening to Native leaders to align the committee's work with their needs. "We are following a long tradition in this Committee – kicking off the new Congress with a hearing focusing on Native communities’ priorities. This Committee is the only Committee in Congress that has the charge to serve the interests of Native people across the federal government. And it’s one I take seriously. The way we live up to that charge is we always listen first," she stated.

Vice Chairman Schatz highlighted recent bipartisan efforts to support Native communities and stressed ongoing engagement. “As the strongest voice for Native priorities in Congress, this Committee has a responsibility to engage with and represent your interests – not just in Congress, but across the federal government,” he said.

Senator Murkowski addressed concerns regarding new Executive Orders and directives from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) affecting Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and American Indians. She reassured attendees by stating: “Some of these actions, I know, caused you to raise concerns... Know we are listening."

The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will continue accepting written testimony until February 26, 2025. They are also monitoring impacts from policies initiated during President Trump's administration concerning diversity and environmental justice issues.

The committee invites affected communities to share their experiences via oversight@indian.senate.gov while ensuring confidentiality.