Implementing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act in Native Communities
Roundtable Discussion Led by Senators Schatz and Murkowski
U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), vice chairman of the Committee, recently organized a roundtable discussion titled “Implementing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act in Native Communities.” The purpose of the discussion was to gather insights from Tribal and Native organization leaders regarding the programs established by these acts that aim to serve Native communities.
Historic Investments in Infrastructure and Climate Solutions
Chairman Schatz acknowledged the significance of the two bills passed in the previous Congress, which made historic investments in infrastructure and supported climate solutions. He commended the administration for its efforts thus far but emphasized that there is still much work to be done. He expressed his hope that the roundtable discussion would mark the beginning of an ongoing dialogue not only with the participants but also with Indian Country and Native communities in Hawai‘i and Alaska.
According to Vice Chairman Lisa Murkowski, Native communities possess the knowledge and understanding necessary to utilize the significant investments provided by these acts to address their diverse infrastructure needs. She stressed the importance of federal agencies ensuring that no community is overlooked when it comes to accessing these funding opportunities. Murkowski expressed gratitude to the tribal leaders and advocates for sharing their insights on how these investments can make a substantial difference in American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities.
Panelists at the Roundtable Discussion
- The Honorable Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, Nespelem, WA
- The Honorable Jacob Keyes, Chairman, Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma, Perkins, OK
- The Honorable Timothy Nuvangyaoma, Chairman, Hopi Tribe, Kykotsmovi, AZ
- The Honorable Sherry Parker, Chairwoman, Hualapai Tribe, Peach Springs, AZ
- Ms. Shawn Malia Kanaʻiaupuni, President & Chief Executive Officer of Partners in Development Foundation, Honolulu, HI
- Ms. Jasmine Boyle, Chief Development Officer, Rural Alaska Community Action Program, Inc., Anchorage, AK
- Ms. Susan Masten, Acting Executive Director, Native American Finance Officers Association, Washington, DC
The full video of the roundtable discussion can be accessed here.
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Read More of this Story at www.indian.senate.gov – 2023-10-26 22:52:52
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