Chairman of NIHB, William Smith, praised the bill’s introduction as “a clear statement prioritizing Indian health care.” He further stated that “elevating the Indian Health Service leadership and authority will amplify the voice and credibility needed to ensure Indian health care receives appropriate attention and support. It is a necessary step in fulfilling the United States trust responsibility and treaty obligations to Tribal nations for health care. NIHB stands ready to help support and advance this important legislation.”
His words were echoed by Chief Executive Officer of NIHB, Stacy Bohlen, citizen of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, who remarked, “For two decades, elevation of the IHS Director to an Assistant Secretary has been a priority for NIHB and Tribal nations.” She added, “The Indian Health Service is the primary agency for fulfilling the United States’ trust responsibility and treaty obligation for health care to Tribal nations. The IHS Administrator is expected to serve as the lead advocate for American Indian and Alaska Native health within the federal government. That individual must be an Administration priority and must have the requisite position, status, and authority to carry out these solemn responsibilities and obligations for Indian health care. We look forward to working with Congress and the Administration in getting this legislation finally passed and signed into law.”
NIHB has also passed Resolution 19-07 in support of elevating the IHS Director to an Assistant Secretary within the DHHS.
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