WASHINGTON – At the National Congress of American Indians Executive Council Winter Session today, Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, outlined initiatives to promote tribal self-determination, economic development and public safety.
“Together, we have advanced initiatives that are important to Indian Country – primarily focusing on jobs and economic development, health care, public safety, housing and veterans,” said Hoeven. “Our past and present accomplishments stand as a testament to the power of better partnership and stronger tribal self-determination.”
During his remarks, Hoeven highlighted initiatives he is championing to build a stronger Indian Country, including:
The Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act. The senator is working to pass this legislation, sponsored by Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), which would ensure tribal governments are treated the same as other sovereigns under the National Labor Relations Act.
The Indian Community Economic Enhancement Act, which would reduce regulatory burden and encourage Indian tribes and other partners to invest, innovate and create jobs in tribal communities.
The Securing Urgent Resources Vital to Indian Victim Empowerment Act, which would expand critical resources for Indian victims of crime by requiring a 5 percent allocation from the Crime Victims Fund be provided to Indian tribes through a grant program.
The Tribal Law and Order Reauthorization and Amendments Act, which would reauthorize and strengthen several key programs to improve tribal justice and public safety in Indian communities.
Legislation to amend and enhance the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act. The senator intends to introduce legislation to provide Indian tribes with greater flexibility to plan, conduct, consolidate and administer federal programs for their communities.
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