District II

December 2025 District 2 Report

Boozhoo Anishinaabe,
This month Federal and State actions brought significant challenges that directly impact our ser-
vices, our schools, and our sovereignty. From education policy to federal funding and consultation standards, White Earth continues to advocate, engage.

Federal Government Reopens
After 41 days of shutdown, Congress advanced a short-term Continuing Resolution to reopen the
Federal Government and extend FY2025 funding levels through Jan. 30, 2026.

• For Tribal Nations this means stability for essential programs.
• Child nutrition programs continue without interruption, ensuring our schools and students
  receive needed support.
• Mandatory programs remain fully funded, including SNAP, WIC, Tribal TANF, and childcare
  services.
• Tribes will receive reimbursement for any costs incurred during the shutdown, including backpay for staff who were affected.
• Critical services regain stability, including BIE schools, Tribal colleges, health programs, and youth-focused initiatives such as Head Start and childcare.

Minnesota Department of Education Consultation
The RBC met with MDE to strengthen statewide support for Native students in K–12 and early childhood education. Topics included cultural curriculum, data accuracy, and Native student outcomes across Minnesota.

Federal Education Actions
Recent Congressional hearings focused heavily on the future of education and access for Native and rural students:

• “From Classroom to Career” Hearing (Nov.19): Discussions centered on expanding Career &
  Technical Education (CTE) pathways—important for our youth entering trades, carpentry, and workforce development programs.
• “Future of College” Hearing (Nov. 18): Lawmakers examined affordability, innovation, and
  technology in higher education. These conversations will influence access for Native and first-generation students.
• Head Start: Pacific jurisdiction grants were stabilized. Although not specific to Tribes, it signals
  continued federal commitment to early childhood learning programs nationwide.

Legislation Affecting Tribal Education:

• H.R. 5328 – Indian Programs Advance Appropriations Act. Would secure year-ahead funding for the Bureau of Indian Education to prevent future shutdown disruptions.
• H.R. 4085 – Haskell Indian Nations University Improvement Act. Proposes establishing Haskell as
  a federally chartered institution—reinforcing treaty-based trust responsibilities for Tribal higher education.

Supporting America’s Children and Families Act
Federal agencies are conducting consultations on updates to Title IV-B, which directly affect:

• ICWA implementation
• Tribal child welfare agencies
• Court Improvement Programs
• Remote hearing systems
• Prevention efforts and family support services
  White Earth Nation is monitoring these sessions.

OMB Deregulatory Guidance
The Office of Management and Budget released new deregulatory guidance that weakens Tribal consultation requirements, allowing federal agencies more flexibility to bypass Tribal input. This change poses risks across:

• Education
• Land and environmental regulation
• Economic development
• Tribal sovereignty and decision-making authority

HOWAH Cultural and Wellness Challenge
White Earth RBC employees recently participated in the annual HOWAH Cultural and Wellness
Challenge, a wellness-focused event promoting healthy habits and cultural connection. Employees
who weighed in and either maintained their weight, lost weight, or were within a healthy BMI range
received a $100 incentive. The event also included community vendors, wellness resources, and healthy activities that supported overall well-being.

Gaming Commission Meeting
On Nov. 20, the White Earth Gaming Commission convened to review regulatory, compliance, and operational updates. These discussions help ensure the continued integrity, transparency, and
accountability of our Tribal gaming enterprises.

Contacts
Eugene Sommers
Email: Eugene.Sommers@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Office Phone: 218-935-6250
Cell Phone: 218-396-9502

Christopher Vanwert Jr
Chrstopher.Vanwert@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Cell Phone: 218-850-2533