Press Room
On The Issues
Photo Gallery
Committees
Just For Kids!

Contact Stephanie
Flag Requests
Visit DC
Casework

Sponsored 109th
Co-Sponsored 109th
Sponsored 108th
Co-Sponsored 108th

About Stephanie
About South Dakota
House of Representatives
Thomas
Blue Dog Coalition

News from Rep. Stephanie Herseth
For Immediate Release
Contact: Russ Levsen, 202-226-4449

HERSETH: WAGNER SERVICE UNIT TO REMAIN OPEN

Praises Temporary Fix - Looks Ahead to Long-Term Solution

January 31, 2006, Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Stephanie Herseth today responded to the news that the Wagner Service Unit will remain open through September of this year. Herseth has worked with tribal and federal officials to avoid limiting the facility's operating hours, which had been scheduled to begin tonight. Instead, the Emergency Room will continue 24-hour operation until the end of the fiscal year, September 30, 2006.

Herseth said, "This decision is a testament to the resilience of the Yankton Sioux Tribe and underlines the importance of this facility to the community it serves. The Wagner Service Unit is a vital health care access point for tribal members throughout the region. I am pleased that IHS has responded positively to the many requests from my office and others to preserve the 24-hour schedule."

Herseth, along with Senators Johnson and Thune, wrote to Dr. Charles Grim, Director of IHS, in December to express her opposition to closure. As the situation developed, her office has maintained close contact with both the Yankton Sioux Tribe and IHS officials.

Herseth is also introducing a House resolution urging the IHS to maintain the 24-hour service. Herseth said, "This solution is a real victory for the health and well-being of the tribal community, however, it is only a short-term solution. I will continue to work with tribal and federal officials to help ensure that members of the Yankton Sioux Tribe maintain access to the health care they need."

# # #