Congresswoman Harriet Hageman, Chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources’ Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs, announced a hearing scheduled for July 24, 2024, at 10:15 AM to consider four bills related to Indian Lands in Alaska and the Indian Health Service (IHS). 

Introduced by Rep. Mary Peltola (D-AK), it would amend the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) to remove provisions requiring Alaska Native Village Corporations to convey land to the State of Alaska to be held in State Trust for future municipal governments. The Act would also allow Alaska Native Village Corporations to dissolve ANCSA State Trusts and regain title to those lands. 

Introduced by Chairwoman Hageman (R-WY), it would amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to ensure that certain actors associated with the IHS receive educational training in the history and culture of the Tribes they serve. 

Introduced by Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), it would amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to ensure that whenever the IHS undertakes an investigation into the professional conduct of a licensee of a State, the IHS notifies the relevant State medical board. 

Introduced by Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), it would amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act for development and implementation of a centralized system to credential licensed health professionals who seek to provide health care services at any IHS service unit. 

We anticipate the customary opportunity to submit written testimony following the hearing. If you have any questions or need assistance in developing written remarks, please reach out to a member of our Indian Law Practice Team.