Friday, Oct 14 2011 7:37PM
Senators say funding is needed for Native Americans, including Native Hawaiians, for housing and community assistance needs, among others.
A number of U.S. Senators recently wrote a letter to President Barack Obama, urging him to include full funding for contract support costs and joint venture staffing in his Fiscal Year 2013 budget proposal.
The Senators requested the measure as a way to "strengthen tribal self-governance, support economic self-sufficiency and honor the government’s agreements with Indian Tribes." Tribal groups in the U.S. contract with the government to administer a variety of healthcare, welfare, housing and other community assistance programs and services.
Senator Mark Begich of Alaska stated important law enforcement and healthcare positions are not being filled due to a lack of funding, and that funding is crucial to the creation and preservation of thousands of jobs.
The letter notes the Bureau of Indian Affairs has informally estimated a budget shortfall of at least $8 million in 2012, further inhibiting its ability to support communities. Montana Senator Max Baucus indicated the funding requested in the letter represents the best method of supporting communities, because tribal leaders already have the best understanding of local needs.
As a result, appropriate funding would allow them to efficiently and effectively make use of available resources through community services.
For further reference, check out this source:
Senator Mark Begich's website