(U.S. Senate) —A newly drafted bill is proposing ensuring Tribal College leaders are incorporated in federal funding decisions.
U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) joined his colleagues Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), in introducing the National Advisory Council on the Indian Education Improvement Act. The bill would give Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) greater input over federal funding discussions that impact them.
The bill if passed would require the National Advisory Council on Indian Education to include at least one member who is the president of a Tribal College or University and to require the Secretaries of Education and the Interior to consider the National Advisory Council on Indian Education’s reports in the preparation of budget materials.
Montana Senator Jon Tester said, “tribal Colleges and Universities play a key role in educating Montana’s future leaders.” He continued, “that’s why it’s critically important that TCU leaders have the chance to work directly with the Departments of Education and the Interior to make sure federal dollars are being spent efficiently and effectively. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support TCU students, and look forward to getting this bill across the finish line.”
