Issue Position: Helping Our Indian Nations Thrive

Issue Position

The Indian Tribes in Montana have a long and rich history in our state, but currently face challenges that need to be addressed. In many of the tribes, unemployment rates are unacceptable -- oftentimes more than quadruple the Montana or national averages. We need to help these communities create good-paying jobs and develop a well-trained workforce.

We must do everything we can to prevent a government shutdown like the one last year that had disastrous consequences for Montana's Indian nations. Hundreds of employees were furloughed and essential services including nutrition assistance, bus service for rural areas and home health care for the elderly were stopped.

Supporting the services that the tribes count on is vital. Critical food assistance programs must be preserved, as should the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. I will support both of these initiatives to help our Indian nations thrive and prosper.

Finally, it is imperative to do everything we can to make sure the Little Shell tribe is recognized by the federal government.

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