SW Arkansas Times

The Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs convened to deliberate on four legislative proposals aimed at aiding Alaska Native veterans, promoting economic growth, enhancing flood resilience on tribal lands, and evaluating the administrative framework of the Indian Health Service (IHS). Subcommittee Chair Jeff Hurd (R-Colo.) expressed his commitment to advancing these issues, stating:

“I am honored to serve as Chairman of the Indian and Insular Affairs Subcommittee and to build upon the great work of Chair Hageman. We gaveled into our first subcommittee hearing to discuss the importance of the Indian Health Service, improve flood resiliency on tribal lands and to protect our Alaska Native Vietnam-era Veterans. I look forward to working with Chairman Westerman and members on the subcommittee.”

The proposed bills include:

- H.R. 410, known as the Alaska Native Vietnam Era Veterans Land Allotment Extension Act of 2025, introduced by U.S. Rep. Nick Begich (R-Alaska), seeks a five-year extension for the land allotment program benefiting Alaska Native Vietnam-era veterans until December 29, 2030.

- H.R. 412, put forward by U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Mich.), aims to allow the Bay Mills Indian Community autonomy in managing their land without needing federal consent for transactions involving land owned outright by them.

- H.R. 504, titled the Miccosukee Reserved Area Amendments Act and introduced by U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez (R-Fla.), proposes amendments that would incorporate Osceola Camp tribal village into the Miccosukee Reserved Area while ensuring protective measures against flooding are undertaken.

- H.R. 741, named the Stronger Engagement for Indian Health Needs Act of 2025 and sponsored by U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), intends to elevate the Director of IHS to an Assistant Secretary position within the Department of Health and Human Services.