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House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:00 AM On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in room 1324 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold an oversight hearing titled “Sea Lion Predation in the Pacific Northwest.” Witnesses Panel I (Administration Witnesses) • Mr. Sam Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD Panel II (Outside Experts) • The Honorable Ken Choke, Chairman, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia, WA • Ms. Aja DeCoteau, Executive Director, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, OR • Mr. Ed Johnstone, Chairman, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Olympia, WA • Mr. Larry Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Policy Director, American Sportfishing Association, Olympia, WA (Minority Witness) Hearing Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418481

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 10:15 AM On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., in room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, the Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills: H.R. 4276 (Rep. Case), To amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes. H.R. 5515 (Rep. Hurd), “Indian Trust Asset Reform Amendment Act” H.R. 5682 (Rep. Issa), To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes. H.R. 5696 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Strengthening Tribal Real Estate Authority and Modernizing Land for Indigenous Nation Expansion Act” or the “STREAMLINE Act” Committee Notice: https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=418466

Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Mullin, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, is the only Native American in the U.S. Senate. He serves on the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. Mullin delivered a video message at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Murkowski serves as chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for the 119th Congress. She delivered a video message at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Schatz serves as vice chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for the 119th Congress. He delivered a video message at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kansas) addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Davids is a citizen of the Ho-Chunk Nation. She is the only Democratic tribal member in the U.S. House of Representatives. Davids delivered a video message at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Ben Smith, the acting director of the Indian Health Service, addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Smith is a citizen of the Navajo Nation. He is a career employee of the IHS, previously serving as deputy director of the agency, which is part of the Department of Health and Human Services. Smith spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

James Crawford, Assistant Secretary for Tribal Government Affairs at the Department of Transportation, addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Crawford is a citizen of the Forest County Potawatomi Community, a federally recognized tribe in Wisconsin. He is the second person to serve as Assistant Secretary for Tribal Government Affairs, a position that was created by an act of Congress. Crawford spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

United States Treasurer Brandon Beach addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Beach was appointed to his position at the Department of the Treasury by President Donald Trump. He began service on May 5, 2025. Beach spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Mark Cruz, Senior Adviser to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Cruz is a citizen of the Klamath Tribes, headquartered in Oregon. He advises Secretary Kennedy on Indian policy issues at the Department of Health and Human Services. Cruz spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Deb Haaland, the Democratic candidate for governor of New Mexico, addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Haaland is a citizen of the Pueblo of Laguna, a federally recognized tribe in New Mexico. She was the first Native person to serve in a presidential cabinet, having been confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the first Native person to lead the Department of the Interior. She also was one of the first two Native women to serve in the U.S. Congress. Haaland spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Peggy Flanagan addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Flanagan is a citizen of the White Earth Nation, a federally recognized tribe in Minnesota. She is the first Native person to serve as Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota. She is the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Minnesota, seeking to be the first Native woman in the chamber. Flanagan spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

*Senate Committee on Appropriations News Release: November 9, 2025* Washington, D.C. – Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, delivered remarks from the Senator floor ahead of the Senate's 60 to 40 procedural vote to advance legislation she unveiled today containing a clean continuing resolution to reopen government & three full-year Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills. The continuing resolution will reopen government immediately, extend funding through January 30th, & provide back pay to all federal workers. It does not include any poison pills. The measure includes the final FY 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, & Related Agencies; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food & Drug Administration, & Related Agencies; & Legislative Branch appropriations bills. This three-bill package, which originally passed the Senate on August 1st with overwhelming bipartisan support, would make full-year appropriations available for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC), & the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “Mr. President, today the Senate Appropriations Committee advanced legislation to reopen government immediately, funding vital programs, & resuming pay for federal workers, who for the last 40 days have had to live with the stress of missed paychecks & not knowing when they would be paid. “Under our legislation, all federal employees, including members of our military & Coast Guard, Capitol Police officers, Border Patrol agents, TSA screeners, air traffic controllers – all will receive their back wages. “It is significant that this measure also includes three full-year Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills, including the annual Agriculture, FDA bill, the Military Construction & Veterans Affairs legislation – very timely given that Veterans Day will soon be upon us – & the Legislative Branch funding bill. “This three-bill package, which originally passed the Senate on August 1st with overwhelming bipartisan support – 87 votes in two cases & 81 in another – will support our veterans, troops, farmers, & rural communities. Of note, this package will provide full-year funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, & the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children, known as WIC. One of the most unfortunate & shameful consequences of this shutdown has been that these vital nutrition programs were in jeopardy for our most vulnerable families, including 170,000 Mainers who rely on the SNAP program. “Other programs will be funded through January 30th while the Senate & House continue work on the remainder of the year-long appropriations bills. For example, funding for important programs like Head Start & low-income heating assistance will now be restored. “I look forward to voting for this legislation & ending the unnecessary harm to the security of our families & our nation. “We must begin to act tonight. We must not delay any longer. “Finally, Mr. President, I want to thank the many members on both sides of the aisle of the Appropriations Committee & the Senate Leadership who have worked especially hard to bring this package together. & I would be remiss if I did not also thank our staff. My staff missed an entire night's sleep to get this package together & get the job done. “Thank you, Mr. President. Again, I want to particularly thank the members of the Appropriations Committee, including those who serve as the Subcommittee Chairs: Senator Boozman, Senator Hoeven, & Senator Mullin. I want to thank Senator Britt who did an extraordinary amount of work. Lisa Murkowski, Mike Rounds, Jerry Moran, Shelley Moore Capito, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Deb Fischer – there's so many who worked so hard on this package. I want to thank each & every one of them. “Let's get the job done & let's do it fast.”

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Legislative Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act Date: November 5, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 106 Agenda: The legislative hearing will be held on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Additional overflow seating will also be available in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC. Witnesses Panel 1 The Honorable Thom Tillis Senator North Carolina Panel 2 The Honorable John Lowery Chairman Lumbee Tribe Pembroke, North Carolina Ms. Arlinda Locklear Tribal Attorney Washington, DC The Honorable Michell Hicks Principal Chief Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Cherokee, North Carolina The Honorable Ben Barnes Chief Shawnee Tribe Miami, Oklahoma Panel 3 Department of the Interior [Written Statement Only] More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/11/05/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-lumbee-fairness-act/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Oversight Hearing entitled “Impacts of Government Shutdowns and Agency Reductions in Force on Native Communities” Date: October 29, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 628 The Honorable Sarah E. Harris Vice Chairwoman / Secretary United South and Eastern Tribes Nashville, Tennessee Mr. Ben Mallott President Alaska Federation of Natives Anchorage, Alaska Mr. Kerry Bird Board President National Indian Education Association Washington, DC Mr. Pete Upton Native CDFI Network Grand Island, Nebraska Mr. A.C. Locklear CEO National Indian Health Board Washington, DC More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/10/29/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-government-shutdown/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Oversight Hearing entitled “Impacts of Government Shutdowns and Agency Reductions in Force on Native Communities” Date: October 29, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 628 The Honorable Sarah E. Harris Vice Chairwoman / Secretary United South and Eastern Tribes Nashville, Tennessee Mr. Ben Mallott President Alaska Federation of Natives Anchorage, Alaska Mr. Kerry Bird Board President National Indian Education Association Washington, DC Mr. Pete Upton Native CDFI Network Grand Island, Nebraska Mr. A.C. Locklear CEO National Indian Health Board Washington, DC More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/10/29/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-government-shutdown/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Oversight Hearing entitled “Impacts of Government Shutdowns and Agency Reductions in Force on Native Communities” Date: October 29, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 628 The Honorable Sarah E. Harris Vice Chairwoman / Secretary United South and Eastern Tribes Nashville, Tennessee Mr. Ben Mallott President Alaska Federation of Natives Anchorage, Alaska Mr. Kerry Bird Board President National Indian Education Association Washington, DC Mr. Pete Upton Native CDFI Network Grand Island, Nebraska Mr. A.C. Locklear CEO National Indian Health Board Washington, DC More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/10/29/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-government-shutdown/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Oversight Hearing entitled “Impacts of Government Shutdowns and Agency Reductions in Force on Native Communities” Date: October 29, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 628 The Honorable Sarah E. Harris Vice Chairwoman / Secretary United South and Eastern Tribes Nashville, Tennessee Mr. Ben Mallott President Alaska Federation of Natives Anchorage, Alaska Mr. Kerry Bird Board President National Indian Education Association Washington, DC Mr. Pete Upton Native CDFI Network Grand Island, Nebraska Mr. A.C. Locklear CEO National Indian Health Board Washington, DC More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/10/29/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-government-shutdown/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Oversight Hearing entitled “Impacts of Government Shutdowns and Agency Reductions in Force on Native Communities” Date: October 29, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 628 The Honorable Sarah E. Harris Vice Chairwoman / Secretary United South and Eastern Tribes Nashville, Tennessee Mr. Ben Mallott President Alaska Federation of Natives Anchorage, Alaska Mr. Kerry Bird Board President National Indian Education Association Washington, DC Mr. Pete Upton Native CDFI Network Grand Island, Nebraska Mr. A.C. Locklear CEO National Indian Health Board Washington, DC More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/10/29/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-government-shutdown/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Oversight Hearing entitled “Impacts of Government Shutdowns and Agency Reductions in Force on Native Communities” Date: October 29, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 628 The Honorable Sarah E. Harris Vice Chairwoman / Secretary United South and Eastern Tribes Nashville, Tennessee Mr. Ben Mallott President Alaska Federation of Natives Anchorage, Alaska Mr. Kerry Bird Board President National Indian Education Association Washington, DC Mr. Pete Upton Native CDFI Network Grand Island, Nebraska Mr. A.C. Locklear CEO National Indian Health Board Washington, DC More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/10/29/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-government-shutdown/

Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Oversight Hearing entitled “Impacts of Government Shutdowns and Agency Reductions in Force on Native Communities” Date: October 29, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Dirksen Room: 628 The Honorable Sarah E. Harris Vice Chairwoman / Secretary United South and Eastern Tribes Nashville, Tennessee Mr. Ben Mallott President Alaska Federation of Natives Anchorage, Alaska Mr. Kerry Bird Board President National Indian Education Association Washington, DC Mr. Pete Upton Native CDFI Network Grand Island, Nebraska Mr. A.C. Locklear CEO National Indian Health Board Washington, DC More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/10/29/witness-list-for-senate-committee-on-indian-affairs-hearing-on-government-shutdown/

The National Congress of American Indians holds a press event as part of the 2025 Tribal Unity Impact Days. The event took place on September 18, 2025, at the Embassy of Tribal Nations in Washington, D.C. Speakers: NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr Native News Online Editor Levi Rickert NCAI President Mark Macarro Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Cherokee Nation Chairman Ernie Stevens, Indian Gaming Association Executive Director Jason Giles, Indian Gaming Association

The National Congress of American Indians holds a press event as part of the 2025 Tribal Unity Impact Days. The event took place on September 18, 2025, at the Embassy of Tribal Nations in Washington, D.C. Speakers: NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr Native News Online Editor Levi Rickert NCAI President Mark Macarro Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Cherokee Nation Chairman Ernie Stevens, Indian Gaming Association Executive Director Jason Giles, Indian Gaming Association

The National Congress of American Indians holds a press event as part of the 2025 Tribal Unity Impact Days. The event took place on September 18, 2025, at the Embassy of Tribal Nations in Washington, D.C. Speakers: NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr Native News Online Editor Levi Rickert NCAI President Mark Macarro Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Cherokee Nation Chairman Ernie Stevens, Indian Gaming Association Executive Director Jason Giles, Indian Gaming Association

The National Congress of American Indians holds a press event as part of the 2025 Tribal Unity Impact Days. The event took place on September 18, 2025, at the Embassy of Tribal Nations in Washington, D.C. Speakers: NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr Native News Online Editor Levi Rickert NCAI President Mark Macarro Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Cherokee Nation Chairman Ernie Stevens, Indian Gaming Association Executive Director Jason Giles, Indian Gaming Association

The National Congress of American Indians holds a press event as part of the 2025 Tribal Unity Impact Days. The event took place on September 18, 2025, at the Embassy of Tribal Nations in Washington, D.C. Speakers: NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr Native News Online Editor Levi Rickert NCAI President Mark Macarro Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Cherokee Nation Chairman Ernie Stevens, Indian Gaming Association Executive Director Jason Giles, Indian Gaming Association

The National Congress of American Indians pays tribute to the late Ernie Stevens, Jr., the longtime chairman of the Indian Gaming Association. Stevens was a citizen of the Oneida Nation from Wisconsin. He passed away on September 26, 2025. He was 66 years old.  "Ernie was a tireless advocate for tribal nations," NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr., a citizen of the Ponca Tribe, said on September 29, 2025. "He was a bridge builder whose leadership elevated Indian Country and whose generosity lifted up so many of us," Wright said.  "We lost a warrior and diplomat on Friday in Ernie Stevens, Jr.," said NCAI President Mark Macarro, the chairman of the Pechanga Band of Indians. Wright and Macarro spoke at the beginning of a webinar hosted by NCAI to discuss the looming shutdown of the federal government.