Cole, Simpson Engage in Tribal Hearings

Washington, D.C. – This week, the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee brought together Tribal members from across the nation to testify on issues and policy priorities for Fiscal Year 2026. During the multi-day hearings, witnesses and lawmakers conveyed a focus on healthcare, law enforcement, and education. Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) and Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson (R-ID) reiterated their commitment to working towards upholding America’s trust and treaty obligations and ensuring strong investments to address critical needs. 

Chairman Cole said, “As the first Native American to lead the House Appropriations Committee, Tribal issues and America’s trust and treaty responsibilities remain central to my policy decisions. Congress welcomed Tribes from across the nation, and this week’s proceedings raised important and diverse voices. The testimony spoke to the heart of strides made and challenges that remain throughout Indian Country. Sharing these perspectives educates members and the public, and I have also been in contact with the administration on central facets and duties to Tribal communities. I deeply appreciate Interior and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson and Ranking Member Chellie Pingree for their attention to these objectives - and the time our Tribal witnesses took to share their experiences.”  

Chairman Cole's full remarks as prepared for delivery are available here.

Subcommittee Chairman Simpson said, "It was a true honor to welcome distinguished Tribal elders and leaders to our hearings this week. These discussions are critical, and we deeply appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from numerous Tribes and Tribal organizations across Indian Country. Their voices and perspectives are essential as we work to address key issues and strengthen our partnership with Tribal communities. I also want to thank Chairman Cole for his historic leadership. As the first Native American to chair the Appropriations Committee, he has made it his mission to advocate for Indian Country. Our subcommittee remains committed to upholding our federal responsibilities to the Tribes."

Subcommittee Chairman Simpson's full remarks as prepared for delivery are available here.

 

Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK)

 

J. Conrad "JC" Seneca, President, Seneca Nation

 

Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson (R-ID)

 

During the multi-day hearings, witnesses and lawmakers conveyed a focus on healthcare, law enforcement, and education.

 

Subcommittee Vice Chair Celeste Maloy (R-UT)

 

The subcommittee heard testimony from nearly 100 Tribal witnesses. 

 

Chief Allen, Chairman, Coeur d'Alene Tribe

 

Rep. Jake Ellzey (R-TX)

 

The public witness hearings occurred over a span of three days.

 

Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT)

 

American Indian and Alaska Native leaders discussed issues and priorities most impacting their communities. 

 

Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) and Subcommittee Vice Chair Celeste Maloy (R-UT)

 

###