Indian Affairs
The culture and traditions of South Dakota's nine tribes have greatly contributed to the rich history of our state and our nation. At the same time, our tribes continue to face numerous challenges. During my time in Congress, I have worked collaboratively with tribal leaders and tribal citizens to address many of these challenges at the federal level.
One important accomplishment was the enactment of the Tribal Law and Order Act. As an original cosponsor, I am proud of the changes made, including allowing federal magistrates to hold court and other proceedings in tribal court and increasing the maximum hiring age of Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement officers, both of which are a positive step forward to increased safety and rule of law in Indian Country.
Another legislative achievement was the permanent reauthorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. This legislation reauthorized Indian Health Service programs, and, among other important improvements, increased access to preventative care and behavioral health services, provided for collaboration between federal agencies to help improve care for Native American veterans, and required the Government Accountability Office to further examine various aspects of health care for tribal citizens.
Together we continue to look for innovative solutions to improve education, access to health care, public safety, and economic opportunity on South Dakota’s nine reservations. Though we have achieved legislative successes over the years, through strong federal, state, and tribal relationships, we can continue to improve the quality of life for tribal citizens, both on and off the reservations.
September 2016
Date | Title |
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9/21/16 | Thune’s IHS Reform Bill Approved By Committee, Heads to Full Senate |
June 2016
Date | Title |
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6/17/16 | Indian Affairs Committee Field Hearing Shines Light on IHS Crisis, Response |
6/16/16 | South Dakota Senators Introduce Amendment to Help Tribes Construct New Detention Facilities |
May 2016
Date | Title |
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5/26/16 | ICYMI: South Dakota’s Coverage of Thune’s Comprehensive IHS Reform Bill |
April 2016
Date | Title |
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4/26/16 | Senate Passes Schatz-Thune Legislation to Improve and Grow Tourism in Native Communities |
4/26/16 | Thune: We Will Hold The Indian Health Service Accountable |
March 2016
Date | Title |
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3/10/16 | Assisting Indian Country in the Fight Against Drug Epidemic a Priority for Thune |
February 2016
Date | Title |
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2/9/16 | Thune Requests Monthly Updates From Great Plains Area Indian Health Service |
2/3/16 | Thune: IHS Leaders Must Be Held Accountable for Systemic Facility Failures |
July 2015
Date | Title |
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7/16/15 | Senate Adopts Thune Provisions to Address Youth Suicide, Aid in Prevention Effort |