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- By Native News Online Staff
WASHINGTON — In addition to articles already covered by Native News Online, here is a roundup of other news released from Washington, D.C. that impacts Indian Country recently.
Representatives Davids and Cole Introduce Bill Supporting Tribal Colleges & Universities
This week, Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) and Tom Cole (R-OK-04), co-chairs of the Congressional Native American Caucus, introduced bipartisan legislation designating this week as “National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week.” The resolution recognizes the importance of these institutions to the economic, educational, and social well-being of Indian Country.
“Tribal Colleges and Universities, including Haskell Indian Nations University in Kansas, provide unique educational opportunities for Native and non-Native students, and support the communities they serve through entrepreneurial and equivalency programs,” said Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS-03). “These institutions are critical because they develop our workforce capacity with knowledge and skills grounded in cultural traditions and values. I am proud to join Representative Cole in leading this legislation.”
“The College of Muscogee Nation in Oklahoma, and all Tribal universities throughout our nation, offer a high-quality education, while also making it their mission to maintain, preserve, and restore Native languages and cultural traditions,” said Representative Tom Cole (R-OK-04). “With that being said, I am proud to join Representative Davids in leading this legislation to give Tribal Colleges and Universities the recognition they deserve.”
Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) are not only centers of learning, but powerful economic engines for Native communities and the nation. In fiscal years 2022 through 2023, TCU alumni contributed $3.8 billion to the national economy, supporting more than 40,700 jobs nationwide. For every dollar invested in TCUs during that period, students gained $7.50 in lifetime earnings, taxpayers saw $1.60 in added tax revenue and public-sector savings, and society gained $4.80 in added income and social savings.
This resolution recognizes the 34 accredited Tribal Colleges and Universities, which serve students from more than 230 federally recognized Indian Tribes, operating on 90 campuses across 16 states. Similar legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House in each of the previous seven years.
HHS and DEA Extend Telehealth Prescribing Flexibilities
The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), jointly with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), announced a fourth extension of telemedicine flexibilities for the prescribing of controlled medications through December 31, 2026. This extension ensures that patients who rely on telehealth, including older adults, rural residents, and people with disabilities, can continue accessing care while permanent rules are being finalized. You can read more about the extensions here.
HHS to Hold 28th Annual Tribal Budget Consultation in April
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will host its 28th Annual Tribal Budget Consultation (ATBC) in-person April 21‑22, 2026, at the Hubert H. Humphrey Building in Washington, D.C. The event allows tribal leaders to discuss national health and human services funding priorities and offer recommendations for HHS’ FY 2028 budget.
Tribes are invited to register for one-on-one meetings with HHS divisions to address tribal-specific priorities. Requests for these 30-minute sessions must be submitted by April 15.
HHS will also hold two virtual planning sessions for tribal leaders on March 18 and April 1, 3–4 p.m. ET, to review the department’s budget process and help shape the consultation agenda. Written comments will be accepted through April 24 at [email protected].
To request a one-on-one meeting, please indicate the HHS agency or agencies you would like to meet with using this embedded registration link . Requests for one-on-one meetings must be received by 5:00pm ET on Wednesday, April 15.
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