SC Alaska News

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, along with U.S. Senator Brian Schatz, a Democrat from Hawaiʻi and Vice Chairman of the Committee, conducted a business meeting in Washington, DC. The purpose was to review 25 bills under consideration by the committee.

Senator Murkowski expressed gratitude towards the sponsors for their contributions to measures that impact Tribes nationwide. "These bills cover important issues for Native people: public health and safety, forestry, addressing the missing and murdered crisis, promoting homeownership, the legacy of Federal Indian boarding school policies, restoration of Tribal lands, and water issues," she stated. She highlighted her involvement in three bills that were approved by the committee. One bill aims to enhance cross-boundary forest objectives with federal agencies while empowering Tribes through '638 contracts.' Another addresses animal health in Native villages by introducing spaying and neutering programs to combat diseases like rabies. Her third bill proposes establishing a Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies to address historical trauma associated with these institutions.

Vice Chairman Schatz emphasized the significance of these legislative efforts: "These bills deliver justice and strengthen support for Native communities’ natural, cultural, and economic resources." He also acknowledged Chairman Murkowski's role in advancing legislation aimed at enhancing federal resources under the NATIVE Act. According to Schatz, supporting Native-led tourism initiatives will allow communities to share their heritage while boosting local economies.

The committee successfully passed all 25 bills discussed during this session.