(a) Short title

This Act may be cited as the Native Children’s Commission Implementation Act of 2026.

(b) Table of contents

The table of contents for this Act is as follows:

In this Act, the terms Indian Tribe and Tribal organization have the meanings given those terms in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304).

Sec. 101. Advisory Committee on Tribal Juvenile Justice

Part A of title II of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (34 U.S.C. 11111 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

224. Advisory committee on Tribal juvenile justice

(a) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Advisory committee

The term Advisory Committee means the Advisory Committee on Tribal Juvenile Justice established pursuant to subsection (b)(1).

(2) Relevant congressional committees

The term relevant congressional committees means—

(A)

the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate;

(B)

the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate; and

(C)

the Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives.

(3) Urban indian organization

The term urban Indian organization has the meaning given the term in section 4 of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (25 U.S.C. 1603).

(b) Establishment

(1) In general

The Attorney General, acting through the Administrator, shall establish a Federal advisory committee, to be known as the Advisory Committee on Tribal Juvenile Justice.

(2) Purpose

The purpose of the Advisory Committee shall be to provide advice and recommendations to the Administrator, the Attorney General, and Congress on all matters relating to juvenile justice, delinquency prevention and system improvement with respect to Tribal youth.

(c) Membership

(1) Composition

The Advisory Committee shall be composed of not fewer than 16 members, of whom—

(A)

1 shall be from a national organization focused on Tribal juvenile justice issues;

(B)

1 shall be from an organization focused on juvenile issues in Native Hawaiian communities;

(C)

1 shall be from an urban Indian organization;

(D)

12 shall be members of Indian Tribes from diverse geographic regions; and

(E)

1 shall be a Tribal youth with experience with the juvenile justice system.

(2) Appointments

The Administrator shall appoint members to the Advisory Committee from among nominations submitted by Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations.

(3) Qualifications

To the maximum extent feasible, the Administrator shall ensure that members of the Committee—

(A)

have experience in Tribal juvenile justice systems, including—

(i)

courts; and

(ii)

law enforcement and child welfare agencies; or

(B)

have experience in juvenile justice, delinquency prevention, behavioral health, or youth services.

(4) Prohibition

A member of the Advisory Committee may not be an officer or employee of the Federal Government.

(5) Terms

(A) In general

Each member if the Advisory Committee shall be appointed for a term of 3 years.

(B) Reappointment

A member of the Advisory Committee may be reappointed for not more than 1 additional 3-year term.

(C) Vacancies

Any vacancy on the Advisory Committee shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.

(d) Duties

The Advisory Committee shall—

(1)

evaluate the effectiveness of programs and grants administered by the Office as those programs and grants relate to Tribal youth;

(2)

identify barriers to the provision of services to Tribal youth, including jurisdictional, funding, and data challenges;

(3)

make recommendations to improve coordination between Federal, State, and Tribal justice systems;

(4)

provide input on the development of regulations, guidance, and policy relating to Tribal juvenile justice;

(5)

make recommendations for improving data collection and research relating to Tribal youth;

(6)

make recommendations to improve access to and resources for aftercare programs for Tribal youth who have been released from detention;

(7)

make recommendations to strengthen Tribal capacity to operate juvenile justice programs; and

(8)

coordinate with the Federal Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice, the Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, and the Office of Tribal Justice.

(e) Meetings

(1) In general

The Committee shall meet in person not less frequently than twice annually.

(2) Agency representation

To the maximum extent practicable, the Administrator and the members of the Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention shall attend the meetings of the Advisory Committee.

(f) Reporting

(1) Committee reports

Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section, and not less frequently than biennially thereafter, the Advisory Committee shall submit to the Administrator and the relevant congressional committees a report—

(A)

on the activities of the Committee;

(B)

on juvenile justice challenges affecting Tribal communities; and

(C)

that includes recommendations for legislative and administrative actions.

(2) Agency response

Not later than 45 days after the date on which the Administrator receives a report under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall submit a written response to—

(A)

the Advisory Committee; and

(B)

the relevant congressional committees.

(g) Compensation

(1) In general

Members of the Advisory Committee shall serve without compensation.

(2) Reimbursement

Members of the Advisory Committee shall be reimbursed for travel, subsistence, and other necessary expenses incurred in the course of carrying out the duties of the Advisory Committee.

(h) Support

At the request of the Advisory Committee, the Administrator shall appoint such administrative and staff support to the Advisory Committee to enable the Advisory Committee to carry out the duties of the Advisory Committee.

(i) Exemption from FACA provision

Section 1013 of title 5, United States Code, shall not apply to the Advisory Committee.

(j) Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $200,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

Sec. 102. Department of Justice and DOI study on the number and status of Native American missing children cases

Sec. 103. Alaska Native Victim Services Fund at the Denali Commission

The Denali Commission Act of 1998 (42 U.S.C. 3121 note; Public Law 105–277) is amended—

Sec. 104. Alaska Native and American Indian family violence, prevention, services, and treatment

Sec. 105. Tiwahe Initiative

Sec. 106. Tribal justice support

Sec. 201. National Institutes of Health Tribal Health Research Office

Part A of title IV of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 281 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

404P. Tribal Health Research Office

(a) Establishment

There is established within the Office of the Director of NIH an office, to be known as the Tribal Health Research Office (referred to in this section as the Office). The Office shall be headed by a director, who shall be appointed by the Director of NIH.

(b) Purposes

The purposes of the Office are—

(1)

the promotion of the Tribal health research programs of the national research institutes and national centers;

(2)

the coordination of such programs among the national research institutes and national centers; and

(3)

the coordination of such programs between the national research institutes and national centers and other public entities and private entities.

(c) Duties

The Director of the Office shall—

(1)

lead and coordinate Tribal health research activities at the National Institutes of Health;

(2)

disseminate to Tribal communities transparent and culturally aware information about the National Institutes of Health and biomedical and behavioral research, including by overseeing the development of a clearinghouse site on data-backed culturally derived interventions;

(3)

provide grants to develop, test, and implement innovative approaches to Native American health, including culturally based interventions and research on early childhood, children, and youth, including disparities;

(4)

work to enhance capacity for research in Native and Tribal communities, including by designating not fewer than 2 employees of the Office to serve as children’s funding and data liaisons for Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations to facilitate access to grants, research, and capacity building opportunities across the Federal Government;

(5)

develop a process to ensure that the Office has the opportunity to provide input in grant review for the national research institutes and national centers;

(6)

serve as the Executive Secretary of the National Institutes of Health Tribal Advisory Committee established under section 404Q; and

(7)

submit to Congress and make publicly available an annual report that addresses—

(A)

the status of interoperability of Federal data sets used by Federal agencies that involve Native peoples;

(B)

the acceptance of traditional ecological knowledge in Federal research and grantmaking; and

(C)

other issues relating to Tribal health research and data sovereignty.

404Q. National Institutes of Health Tribal Advisory Committee

(a) Establishment

(1) In general

The Secretary shall establish within the National Institutes of Health an advisory committee, to be known as the National Institutes of Health Tribal Advisory Committee (referred to in this section as the Advisory Committee).

(2) Purpose

The purpose of the Advisory Committee is to provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary, the Director of NIH, and the Director of the Tribal Health Research Office on all matters relating to Tribal health research, promotion, and coordination.

(b) Membership

(1) Composition

(A) Required members

The Advisory Committee shall be composed of not fewer than 17 members, to be appointed by the Secretary, of whom—

(i)

12 shall be Tribal leaders (or their designees) from each of the 12 regions of the Bureau of Indian Affairs;

(ii)

1 shall be a representative of a Native Hawaiian organization;

(iii)

2 shall be representatives of an urban Indian organization; and

(iv)

2 shall be representatives of Tribal Epidemiology Centers.

(B) Optional member

In addition to the members required under subparagraph (A), the Secretary may appoint an additional member to serve on the Advisory Committee, who shall be a representative of Native youth.

(2) Appointment

The Secretary shall appoint members to the Advisory Committee from among nominations submitted by Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, urban Indian organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations.

(3) Qualifications

To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall ensure that members of the Advisory Committee—

(A)

represent diverse geographic regions; and

(B)

have experience in Tribal issues, research, and theory of data sovereignty and traditional ecological knowledge and practices.

(c) Duties

The Advisory Committee shall—

(1)

advise staff of the National Institutes of Health and provide feedback on any action or policy of the National Institutes of Health that will have Tribal implications;

(2)

serve as a forum for Indian Tribes and the National Institutes of Health to discuss proposals for changes to policies, regulations, and procedures of the National Institutes of Health, including research priorities;

(3)

explore opportunities for participation in other committees or working groups of the National Institutes of Health;

(4)

respond to the National Institutes of Health on cultural and technical issues regarding grants and contract policies and the impact of such policies on Indian Tribes;

(5)

raise pertinent issues to the attention of Tribal leaders; and

(6)

if appropriate, propose clarifications, recommendations, and solutions to address issues raised at Tribal, regional, and national levels, including—

(A)

to increase the accessibility of Federal datasets containing data relating to Tribal health disparities;

(B)

to develop data standards and standard definitions to be used across the Federal Government to improve the interoperability of Federal datasets containing data relating to Tribal health;

(C)

to expand opportunities for Native communities to implement interventions using traditional Indigenous knowledge and practice-based evidence with Federal funds;

(D)

to increase opportunities for Federal agencies and communities to collect strengths-based and community values-centric data;

(E)

to improve policies for accessing and sharing data collected relating to Tribal communities; and

(F)

to expand opportunities for the acceptance of traditional knowledge and cultural interventions that do not meet the current evidence-based practice standard of the Federal Government but are known to be effective by Native communities as practice-based evidence.

(d) Meetings

The Advisory Committee shall meet in person not less frequently than twice annually.

(e) Agency representation

(1) In general

The Director of NIH shall serve as the designated Federal officer for the Advisory Committee.

(2) Executive Secretary

The Director of the Tribal Health Research Office shall serve as the Executive Secretary of the Advisory Committee.

(f) Reporting

(1) Committee reports

Not less frequently than annually, the Advisory Committee shall submit to the Secretary and the relevant committees of Congress a report on—

(A)

the activities of the Advisory Committee;

(B)

research, data, and health challenges affecting Native communities, particularly children and youth; and

(C)

recommendations for legislative and administrative actions, if appropriate.

(2) Agency response

Not later than 45 days after the date on which the Secretary receives a report under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit a written response to—

(A)

the Advisory Committee; and

(B)

the relevant committees of Congress.

(g) Compensation

Members of the Advisory Committee shall serve without compensation. Members shall be reimbursed for travel, subsistence and other necessary expenses incurred by such members in carrying out the duties of the Advisory Committee.

(h) Support

The Secretary shall provide technical and logistical support to the Advisory Committee.

(i) FACA exemption

Chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the Federal Advisory Committee Act), shall not apply to the Advisory Committee.

(j) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Relevant committees of congress

The term relevant committees of Congress means—

(A)

the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate;

(B)

the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate;

(C)

the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives; and

(D)

the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives.

(2) Urban indian organization

The term urban Indian organization has the meaning given the term in section 4 of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act.

(k) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $2,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

Sec. 202. Improving Native infant and maternal health data

Sec. 301. Health Resources and Services Administration Tribal Advisory Committee

Part P of title III of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 280g et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

399V–8. Health Resources and Services Administration Tribal Advisory Committee

(a) Establishment

(1) In general

The Secretary shall establish within the Health Resources and Services Administration an advisory committee to be known as the Health Resources and Services Administration Tribal Advisory Committee (referred to in this section as the Advisory Committee).

(2) Purpose

The Advisory Committee shall provide a forum wherein elected Tribal officials acting in their official capacity (or designated employees of such officials) and Health Resources and Service Administration staff exchange views, information, or advice about emerging public health issues in Indian country, the identification of urgent public health resources and service needs, and collaborative approaches to address the issues and needs of American Indian and Alaska Native populations. The Advisory Committee shall support, but not supplant, government-to-government consultation between the Secretary and Indian Tribes on activities and policies of the Health Resources and Service Administration that affect Tribes and American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

(b) Membership

(1) Composition

The Advisory Committee shall be composed of at least 14 members, appointed by the Secretary as described in paragraph (2), including 1 representative for each of the 12 service areas of the Indian Health Service, and 1 alternate delegate for each such member.

(2) Appointment

The Secretary shall appoint the members of the Advisory Committee from nominations submitted by Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations.

(3) Qualifications

Each member of the Advisory Committee appointed by the Secretary under this subsection shall—

(A)

be an elected Tribal official, acting in their official capacity as an elected official of their Tribe, or be designated by an elected Tribal official, in that official’s elected capacity, with authority to act on behalf of the Tribal official; and

(B)

have experience in matters related to programs under the Department of Health and Human Services.

(4) Tribal technical advisors

The Secretary shall ensure that members of the Advisory Committee have the support of Tribal technical advisors to support their work on the Advisory Committee.

(5) Terms

(A) In general

Each member of the Advisory Committee shall be appointed for a term of 3 years.

(B) Staggered terms

The Secretary shall establish a system of staggered terms to ensure continuity of the Advisory Committee.

(C) Reappointment

Members of the Advisory Committee may be reappointed for not more than 2 consecutive terms.

(D) Vacancies

Vacancies in the membership of the Advisory Committee shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment for the remainder of the term.

(c) Duties

(1) In general

The Advisory Committee shall—

(A)

identify evolving issues and barriers to access, coverage, and delivery of services pursuant to Health Resources and Service Administration programs to American Indian and Alaska Native individuals;

(B)

propose to the Secretary and to Congress clarifications, recommendations, and solutions to address issues raised at the Tribal, regional, and national levels;

(C)

serve as a forum for Indian Tribes and the Health Resources and Service Administration to discuss changes to regulations, policies, and procedures of the Health Resources and Service Administration;

(D)

identify priorities and provide advice on appropriate strategies for Tribal consultation with the Health Resources and Service Administration on issues at the Tribal, regional, and national levels; and

(E)

communicate with Indian Tribes in their respective areas and gather feedback on pertinent issues.

(2) Subcommittees

(A) In general

The Chair and Vice Chair of the Advisory Committee—

(i)

shall establish a subcommittee on maternal health; and

(ii)

may establish such other subcommittees as the Chair and Vice Chair determine appropriate to carry out the duties of such committee.

(B) Duties of subcommittee on maternal health

The subcommittee on maternal health established under subparagraph (A)(i) shall—

(i)

identify emerging issues affecting maternal health outcomes among American Indian and Alaska Native women;

(ii)

propose solutions and provide recommendations, with respect to American Indian and Alaska Native women—

(I)

to reduce maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity;

(II)

to improve access to maternal health care services;

(III)

to enhance culturally appropriate care;

(IV)

to strengthen maternal health data collection and surveillance;

(V)

to address social determinants of maternal health;

(VI)

to address postpartum mental health and substance use disorder treatment and care; and

(VII)

to recognize the interconnectedness between maternal health and child health outcomes, encouraging initiatives that prioritize comprehensive care for mothers to enhance child health;

(iii)

provide guidance on Tribal consultation for maternal health initiatives;

(iv)

identify interdepartmental barriers and propose solutions to the Advisory Committee for coordination between the Health Resources and Services Administration and—

(I)

the Indian Health Service;

(II)

the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services;

(III)

the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration;

(IV)

State maternal mortality review committees; and

(V)

Tribal epidemiology centers;

(v)

guide the Advisory Committee in traditional American Indian and Alaska Native practices in maternal health services;

(vi)

support emergency preparedness for maternal health crises in Tribal communities; and

(vii)

evaluate the progress of the Department of Health and Human Services in establishing regional American Indian and Alaska Native maternal and child mortality review boards, and provide recommendations for the establishment of such boards.

(d) Meetings

(1) In general

The Advisory Committee shall meet in person not less frequently than twice each year.

(2) Agency representation

The Associate Administrator of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (or a designee) shall attend each meeting of the subcommittee on maternal health established under subsection (c)(2)(A)(i).

(e) Reporting

(1) Committee reports

Not less frequently than annually, the Advisory Committee shall submit to the Secretary and the relevant committees of Congress a report on—

(A)

the activities of the Committee;

(B)

public health challenges affecting Tribal communities;

(C)

maternal health challenges affecting Tribal communities; and

(D)

recommendations for legislative and administrative actions.

(2) Agency response

Not later than 45 days after receiving a report under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit a written response to such report to—

(A)

the Advisory Committee; and

(B)

the relevant committees of Congress.

(f) Compensation

(1) In general

Members of the Advisory Committee shall serve without compensation.

(2) Reimbursement

Members of the Advisory Committee shall be reimbursed for travel, subsistence, and other necessary expenses incurred in the course of carrying out the duties of the Advisory Committee.

(g) Support

The Secretary shall provide technical and logistical support to the Advisory Committee. Pursuant to subsection (b)(4), the Secretary shall provide for Tribal technical support from a national Indian organization, in consultation with the Advisory Committee, from within authorized appropriations, to carry out this section.

(h) Applicability of faca

Chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the Federal Advisory Committee Act), shall not apply to the Advisory Committee.

(i) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Advisory committee

The term Advisory Committee means the Health Resources and Services Administration Tribal Advisory Committee established under subsection (a).

(2) Relevant committees of congress

The term relevant committees of Congress means—

(A)

the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate;

(B)

the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate;

(C)

the Committee on Finance of the Senate;

(D)

the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives; and

(E)

the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives.

(j) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $200,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

Sec. 302. Department of Health and Human Services study on the intersection of maternal mortality and domestic violence

Sec. 303. Grants to grow the perinatal workforce for Tribal communities

Part D of title VII of the Public Health Service Act is amended by inserting after section 757 (42 U.S.C. 294f) the following:

758. Tribal perinatal workforce demonstration grants

(a) In general

The Secretary shall award grants to eligible entities to establish or expand programs to recruit, train, and retain maternity care providers, mental and behavioral health care providers acting in accordance with State law, registered dietitians or nutrition professionals (as such term is defined in section 1861(vv)(2) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x(vv)(2))), and other perinatal health workers to increase access to culturally appropriate perinatal care in Tribal communities.

(b) Use of funds

Recipients of grants under this section shall use the grants to grow and diversify the perinatal workforce by—

(1)

establishing accredited schools, programs, medical residencies, fellowships, or other education and training opportunities that prepare individuals to practice in an Indian Health Service facility, Tribal health program, urban Indian organization, or other Indian health program;

(2)

recruiting, training, and retaining individuals for the programs described in paragraph (1), including individuals who—

(A)

are members of an Indian Tribe (as defined in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act);

(B)

have demonstrated experience or expertise working with Tribal communities; or

(C)

have completed training on providing culturally appropriate care to Tribal communities;

(3)

developing and implementing culturally appropriate workforce training, curricula, mentorship programs, clinical experiences, or other educational activities in partnership with Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, or urban Indian organizations;

(4)

supporting education, training, licensing, certification, or clinical experience for—

(A)

maternity care providers;

(B)

mental and behavioral health care providers acting in accordance with State law;

(C)

registered dietitians or nutrition professionals (as defined in section 1861(vv)(2) of the Social Security Act);

(D)

midwives who meet, at a minimum, the international definition of a midwife and global standards for midwifery education as established by the International Confederation of Midwives;

(E)

perinatal health workers;

(F)

physician assistants;

(G)

advanced practice registered nurses; and

(H)

lactation consultants certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners; and

(5)

expanding the capacity of existing accredited schools, programs, medical residencies, or fellowships described in paragraph (1), including by increasing enrollment, expanding clinical training opportunities, and awarding scholarships, fellowships, stipends, or other student support.

(c) Prioritization

In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary shall give priority to eligible entities that—

(1)

submit a joint application with, or demonstrate a formal partnership with, an Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or urban Indian organization to develop and implement culturally appropriate workforce training, recruitment, and retention strategies;

(2)

have demonstrated a commitment to recruiting and retaining students, faculty, and health professionals who are members of Indian Tribes;

(3)

have developed a strategy to recruit and retain students and providers who plan to practice in a health professional shortage area designated under section 332; or

(4)

have developed a strategy to recruit and retain students and providers who plan to practice in an Indian Health Service facility, Tribal health program, or urban Indian organization.

(d) Reporting

As a condition of receiving a grant under this section, an eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an annual report on the activities conducted through the grant, including—

(1)

the number and demographics of students participating in the program;

(2)

the extent to which students participating in the program enter careers in—

(A)

health professional shortage areas designated under section 332; or

(B)

Indian Health Service facilities, Tribal health programs, or urban Indian organizations; and

(3)

the impact of the grant on increasing the availability of culturally appropriate perinatal health services in Tribal communities.

(e) Period of grants

The period of a grant under this section shall be up to 5 years.

(f) Technical assistance

The Secretary shall provide, directly or by contract, technical assistance to entities seeking or receiving a grant under this section on the development, use, evaluation, and postgrant period sustainability of the school or program described in subsection (b) that is proposed to be, or is being, established or expanded through the grant.

(g) Report by the Secretary

Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall prepare and submit to Congress, and post on the website of the Department of Health and Human Services, a report on the effectiveness of the grant program under this section at increasing the number of perinatal health professionals working in an Indian Health Service facility, a Tribal facility, or an urban Indian organization.

(h) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Eligible entity

In this section, the term eligible entity means—

(A)

an institution of higher education;

(B)

an accredited school or program that provides education and training for maternity care providers, mental and behavioral health care providers, registered dietitians or nutrition professionals, or other perinatal health professionals;

(C)

a teaching health center or graduate medical education program;

(D)

an Indian Tribe or Tribal organization (as such terms are defined in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act);

(E)

an urban Indian organization (as defined in section 4 of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act); or

(F)

a consortium of entities described in subparagraphs (A) through (E).

(2) Maternity care provider

The term maternity care provider means a health care provider who is a physician, physician assistant midwife who meets at a minimum the international definition of a midwife and global standards for midwifery education as established by the International Confederation of Midwives, advanced practice registered nurse, or a lactation consultant certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, and has a focus on maternal or perinatal health.

(3) Perinatal health worker

The term perinatal health worker means a nonclinical health worker focused on maternal or perinatal health, such as a doula, community health worker, peer supporter, lactation educator or counselor, nutritionist or dietitian, childbirth educator, social worker, home visitor, patient navigator or coordinator, or language interpreter.

(i) Authorization of appropriations

To carry out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

Sec. 304. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Tribal Technical Advisory Committee

Title V of the Public Health Service Act is amended by inserting after section 501C (42 U.S.C. 290aa–0b) the following:

501D. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Tribal Technical Advisory Committee

(a) Establishment

The Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary, shall establish within the Administration a Tribal Technical Advisory Committee to be known as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Tribal Technical Advisory Committee (referred to in this section as the TTAC).

(b) Purpose

The purpose of the TTAC shall be to serve as an advisory committee to the Assistant Secretary regarding the provision of culturally appropriate mental health and substance use services to American Indian and Alaska Native communities, including—

(1)

identifying behavioral health priorities for children and youth in Tribal communities;

(2)

improving the quality and effectiveness of behavioral health services for American Indians and Alaska Natives;

(3)

identifying evolving issues and barriers to access, coverage, and delivery of services relating to substance use and mental health services;

(4)

increasing Tribal consultation in program planning and policies of the Administration;

(5)

supporting and enhancing government-to-government relationships between Indian Tribes and the Administration; and

(6)

providing recommendations on the policies and activities of the Administration that affect Tribal communities.

(c) Membership

(1) Appointment

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Native Children’s Commission Implementation Act of 2026, the Assistant Secretary shall appoint the members of the TTAC in accordance with this subsection.

(2) Composition

The TTAC shall be composed of not fewer than 14 members, including the following:

(A)

1 representative from each of the 12 service areas of the Indian Health Service;

(B)

2 representatives from national Tribal organizations or urban Indian organizations (as such terms are defined in section 4 of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act) who possess national expertise in behavioral health.

(3) Qualifications

Each member of the TTAC appointed under paragraph (2) shall—

(A)

be an elected Tribal official, acting in their official capacity as an elected official of their Tribe, or be designated by an elected Tribal official, in that official’s elected capacity, with authority to act on behalf of the Tribal official; and

(B)

have expertise in behavioral health, public health, or related fields.

(4) Terms

(A) In general

Each member of the TTAC shall be appointed for a term of 2 years.

(B) Vacancies

A vacancy in the TTAC shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made and shall not affect the powers or duties of the TTAC.

(5) Tribal technical advisors

The Secretary shall ensure that TTAC members have the support of Tribal technical advisors that have subject matter expertise to support the work of the TTAC.

(d) Duties

The TTAC shall—

(1)

provide advice to the Assistant Secretary on policies and programs affecting Tribal communities;

(2)

identify emerging issues and concerns regarding behavioral health in Tribal communities;

(3)

propose solutions and recommendations for addressing identified issues; and

(4)

submit an annual report to the Assistant Secretary summarizing the activities and recommendations of the TTAC.

(e) Support

(1) Staff

The Assistant Secretary shall provide such staff and support services as may be necessary for the TTAC to carry out its duties.

(2) Compensation

Members of the TTAC who are not officers or employees of the United States shall not receive compensation for service on the TTAC, but may receive travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in accordance with applicable provisions under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code.

(f) Applicability of FACA

Chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the Federal Advisory Committee Act), shall not apply to the Committee.

(g) Effect

Nothing in this section shall—

(1)

limit the obligation of the United States to provide services to American Indians and Alaska Natives; or

(2)

modify, diminish, or otherwise affect the trust responsibility of the United States to Indian Tribes.

(h) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $200,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

Sec. 305. Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee

Part B of title II of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 238 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

249. Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee

(a) Establishment

(1) In general

The Secretary shall establish within the Department of Health and Human Services a committee to be known as the Secretary's Tribal Advisory Committee (referred to in this section as the Committee).

(2) Purpose

The purpose of the Committee shall be to seek consensus, exchange views, share information, provide advice and recommendations, and facilitate and enhance, but not supplant, government-to-government consultation between the Secretary and Indian Tribes on matters relating to intergovernmental responsibilities or the administration of programs under the Department of Health and Human Services.

(b) Membership

(1) Composition

The Committee shall be composed of 1 representative from each of the 12 service areas of the Indian Health Service.

(2) Appointment

The Secretary shall appoint the members of the Committee from nominations submitted by Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, and national organizations representing American Indians and Alaska Natives.

(3) Qualifications

With respect to the members of the Committee appointed under paragraph (2)—

(A)

each such member shall—

(i)

be an elected Tribal official, acting in their official capacity as an elected official of their Tribe, or be designated by an elected Tribal official, in that official’s elected capacity, with authority to act on behalf of the Tribal official; and

(ii)

have experience in matters related to programs under the Department; and

(B)

the members shall together represent diverse geographic regions.

(4) Terms

(A) In general

Each member of the Committee shall be appointed for a term of 2 years.

(B) Staggered terms

The Secretary shall establish a system of staggered terms to ensure continuity of the Committee.

(C) Reappointment

Members of the Committee may be reappointed.

(5) Tribal technical advisors

The Secretary shall ensure that members of the Advisory Committee have the support of Tribal technical advisors to support their work on the Advisory Committee.

(c) Duties

The Committee shall—

(1)

identify evolving issues that affect the administration of programs under the Department that serve American Indians and Alaska Natives;

(2)

propose solutions and provide recommendations—

(A)

to improve access to, coverage of, and delivery of services;

(B)

to enhance coordination between the Department and Indian Tribes; and

(C)

to strengthen Department consultation with Indian Tribes;

(3)

identify interdepartmental barriers and propose solutions for coordination between the agencies and offices of the Department; and

(4)

advise on strategies for effective implementation of Department programs and policies in Tribal communities.

(d) Meetings

(1) In general

The Committee shall, to the maximum extent practicable, meet in person not less frequently than twice each year.

(2) Agency representation

The Secretary or the Secretary's designee shall attend each meeting of the Committee.

(3) Requirement

At least one meeting per year shall be held in person in Indian country.

(e) Reporting

(1) Committee reports

Not less frequently than every 2 years, the Committee shall submit to the Secretary and the relevant committees of Congress a report on—

(A)

the activities of the Committee;

(B)

challenges affecting the government-to-government relationship between the Secretary and Indian Tribes; and

(C)

recommendations for legislative and administrative actions relating to access, coverage, and delivery of services to American Indian and Alaska Natives, related to programs of the Department of Health and Human Services.

(2) Agency response

Not later than 45 days after receiving a report under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit a written response to—

(A)

the Committee; and

(B)

the relevant committees of Congress.

(f) Compensation

(1) In general

Members of the Advisory Committee shall serve without compensation.

(2) Reimbursement

Members of the Advisory Committee shall be reimbursed for travel, subsistence, and other necessary expenses incurred in the course of carrying out the duties of the Advisory Committee.

(g) Support

The Secretary shall provide technical and logistical support to the Committee.

(h) Applicability of FACA

Chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the Federal Advisory Committee Act), shall not apply to the Committee.

(i) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Committee

The term Committee means the Secretary's Tribal Advisory Committee established under subsection (a)(1).

(2) Department

The term Department means the Department of Health and Human Services.

(3) Relevant committees of congress

The term relevant committees of Congress means—

(A)

the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate;

(B)

the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate; and

(C)

the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives.

(j) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $200,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

Sec. 306. Community mental health services grants for Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations

Subpart I of part B of title XIX of the Public Health Service Act is amended by inserting after section 1918 (42 U.S.C. 300x–7) at the end the following:

1918A. Direct grants to Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations

(a) In general

Each fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve 5 percent of the amounts appropriated under section 1920(a) for the fiscal year for direct grants to Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations in accordance with this section.

(b) Application

In order for an Indian Tribe or Tribal organization to be eligible for a grant under subsection (a), such Indian Tribe or Tribal organization shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require.

(c) Use of funds

An Indian Tribe or Tribal organization that receives a grant under subsection (a) shall use the grant funds to provide community mental health services for adults with a serious mental illness and children with a serious emotional disturbance, as defined in accordance with section 1912(c).

(d) Definitions

In this section, the terms Indian Tribe and Tribal organization have the meanings given the terms in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.

Sec. 307. Substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery grants for Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations

Subpart II of part B of title XIX of the Public Health Service Act is amended by inserting after section 1933 (42 U.S.C. 300x–33) the following:

1933A. Direct grants to Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations

(a) In general

Each fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve 5 percent of the amounts appropriated under section 1935(a) for the fiscal year for direct grants to Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations in accordance with this section.

(b) Application

In order for an Indian Tribe or Tribal organization to be eligible for a grant under subsection (a), such Indian Tribe or Tribal organization shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require.

(c) Use of funds

An Indian Tribe or Tribal organization that receives a grant under subsection (a) shall use the grant funds for planning, carrying out, and evaluating activities to prevent, treat, and provide recovery support services for substance use disorders.

(d) Definitions

In this section, the terms Indian Tribe and Tribal organization have the meanings given the terms in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.

Sec. 308. Self-governance demonstration program for behavioral health programs for Indian Tribes

Part D of title V of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 290dd et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

554. Self-governance demonstration program for behavioral health programs for Indian Tribes

(a) In general

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall establish a demonstration program under which participating Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, or inter-Tribal consortia may assume the administration of certain behavioral health covered programs of the Department of Health and Human Services through self-governance compacts and funding agreements.

(b) Demonstration duration

The demonstration program shall operate for a period of 5 years beginning on the date the Secretary executes the first funding agreement under this section.

(c) Selection of participating Indian Tribes

(1) In general

The Secretary may select not more than 15 Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, or inter-Tribal consortia to administer 1 or more covered programs, services, functions, or activities under this program each year of the demonstration program.

(2) Eligibility

To be eligible to be selected under paragraph (1), an Indian Tribe or inter-Tribal consortium shall—

(A)

submit to the Secretary a request pursuant to a resolution or other official action by—

(i)

in the case of a request submitted by an Indian Tribe, the governing body of that Indian Tribe;

(ii)

in the case of a request submitted by a Tribal organization, the governing body of each Indian Tribe included in the Tribal organization; and

(iii)

in the case of a request submitted by an inter-Tribal consortium, the governing body of each Indian Tribe included in that inter-Tribal consortium; and

(B)

as of the date of such submission—

(i)

be a party to a compact and funding agreement under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act; and

(ii)

satisfy any additional criteria established by the Secretary in consultation with Indian Tribes.

(3) Other authorized Indian Tribe, inter-Tribal consortium, or Tribal organization

If an Indian Tribe authorizes another Indian Tribe, an inter-Tribal consortium, or a Tribal organization by resolution to plan for or carry out an included program on its behalf under this section, the authorized Indian Tribe, inter-Tribal consortium, or Tribal organization shall have the rights and responsibilities of the authorizing Indian Tribe (except as otherwise provided in the authorizing resolution).

(d) Compacts and funding agreements

(1) In general

Not later than 60 days after the date of selection by the Secretary of a participating Indian Tribe, inter-Tribal consortium, or Tribal organization described in subsection (c)(2), the Secretary shall negotiate and enter into a written compact and funding agreement with the Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or inter-Tribal consortium in a manner consistent with Federal trust responsibilities, treaty obligations, and the government-to-government relationships between Indian Tribes and the United States.

(2) Contents

(A) In general

The contents of a compact and funding agreement entered into or modified under paragraph (1) shall be consistent with the contents required to be in a compact and funding agreement, respectively, under sections 504 and 505 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, except that such contents under this section may include such reasonable modifications as the Secretary and the Indian Tribe, Tribal organization authorized by an Indian Tribe, or inter-Tribal consortium determine necessary to support Tribal administration of included programs.

(B) Reporting

The provisions of chapter 75 of title 31, United States Code, requiring a single agency audit report shall apply to a compact and funding agreement under this section, subject to the condition that any additional reporting provisions with respect to the compact and funding agreement shall be subject to negotiation under paragraph (1) between the Indian Tribe and the Secretary.

(e) Funding

(1) In general

The Secretary shall provide funds to the Indian Tribe, Tribal organization authorized by an Indian Tribe, or inter-Tribal consortium under a self-governance compact or funding agreement entered into under this section for programs included in such self-governance compact or funding agreement in an amount that is equal to the amount such Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or inter-Tribal consortium would have been entitled to receive under such programs. Funding shall be subject to a negotiations process, with the minimum amount provided in an amount that is not less than what the Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or inter-Tribal consortium would have otherwise received under such programs.

(2) Matching requirement

At the request of an Indian Tribe, Tribal organization authorized by an Indian Tribe, or inter-Tribal consortium selected under this section, if the Secretary determines the request to be reasonable, the Secretary shall waive any matching requirement that would otherwise apply to the Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or inter-Tribal consortium under an included program covered by a compact or funding agreement under this section.

(f) Rules of construction

The Secretary shall implement each provision of this section, and each provision of a compact or funding agreement entered into or modified pursuant to this section, in a manner consistent with title V of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, except the Secretary may make reasonable modifications—

(1)

to comply with the provisions of this title when the provisions of this title conflict with the provisions of title V of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act; and

(2)

to the extent necessary to fulfill the policies described in the declaration of policy in section 3 of title V of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act relating to Tribal administration of programs, services, functions, or activities (or portions thereof) pursuant to title V of such Act.

(g) Waivers

(1) In general

At the request of an Indian Tribe, Tribal organization authorized by an Indian Tribe, or inter-Tribal consortium, if the Secretary determines that a waiver would further the declaration of policy under section 3 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, the Secretary shall grant a waiver of statutory, regulatory, or program requirements to facilitate the ability of an Indian Tribe, Tribal organization authorized by an Indian Tribe, or inter-Tribal consortium to redesign or consolidate included programs or reallocate funds.

(2) Documentation

The Secretary shall document all requests for a waiver under paragraph (1), including a description of—

(A)

the reasons for each request;

(B)

the effect of the waiver on the Indian Tribe, authorized Tribal organization, or inter-Tribal consortium making the request; and

(C)

the views of the Indian Tribe, authorized Tribal organization, or inter-Tribal consortium regarding the requested waiver.

(3) Disagreement

Waiver requests shall be subject to the final offer process described in section 507(b) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.

(h) Other agency statements

Unless expressly agreed to by an Indian Tribe, Tribal organization authorized by an Indian Tribe, or inter-Tribal consortium in a compact of funding agreement entered into or modified pursuant to this section, an Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or inter-Tribal consortium selected under this section shall not be subject to any agency circular, policy, manual, guidance, or regulation.

(i) Applicability of other provisions

The following provisions of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act shall apply to a compact or funding agreement under this title:

(1)

Section 102(d).

(2)

Subsections (b), (c)(1), (c)(2), (d), (e), and (h) of section 506.

(3)

Subsections (g), (h), and (i) of section 508.

(j) Technical assistance

(1) In general

The Director of the Office of Tribal Self-Governance of the Department of Health and Human Services shall provide technical assistance to the Secretary and participating Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations to carry out this section, including technical assistance to Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations to conduct evaluations of programs for which such Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations have participated in self-governance under this section.

(2) Technical assistance grants

The Secretary shall award grants to national organizations with expertise on Tribal self-governance, for purposes of providing technical assistance to Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations in the negotiation of self-governance compact or funding agreements described in subsection (a).

(3) Authorization of appropriations

(A) In general

There are authorized to be appropriated—

(i)

$2,000,000 to carry out the technical assistance grants under paragraph (2); and

(ii)

such sums as necessary to provide technical assistance under paragraph (1).

(B) Availability

Amounts made available pursuant to subparagraph (A) shall remain available until expended.

(k) Consultation

The Secretary shall conduct Tribal consultation before promulgating regulations to carry out this section.

(l) Reporting

The Secretary, in consultation with the participating Indian Tribes and inter-Tribal consortia, shall submit to Congress annual reports on the implementation of this section.

(m) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Covered program

The term covered program means any mental health, substance abuse prevention and treatment, recovery support, crisis response, suicide prevention, or related behavioral health program of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration as the Secretary determines appropriate.

(2) Funding agreement

The term funding agreement means a negotiated agreement between the Secretary and an Indian Tribe or inter-Tribal consortium that specifies the programs, services, functions, and activities to be performed by such Indian Tribe or Tribal organization.

(3) Indian Tribe, Tribal organization

The terms Indian Tribe and Tribal organization have the meanings given such terms in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.

(4) Inter-Tribal consortium

The term inter-Tribal consortium has the meaning given the term in section 501 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.

(5) Self governance compact

The term self-governance compact means a negotiated agreement between the Secretary and an Indian Tribe, inter-Tribal consortium, or a Tribal organization authorized by an Indian Tribe that establishes the general terms of the relationship between the Secretary and such Indian Tribe or inter-Tribal consortium.

Sec. 401. Native Children's Environmental Health Protection Task Force

The Indian Health Care Improvement Act is amended by inserting after section 223 (25 U.S.C. 1621v) the following:

224. Native Children's Environmental Health Protection Task Force

(a) Establishment

(1) In general

There is established within the Council on Environmental Quality a Native Children's Environmental Health Protection Task Force (referred to in this section as the Task Force).

(2) Membership

The Task Force—

(A)

shall include—

(i)

the Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality, who shall serve as Chairperson of the Task Force; and

(ii)

1 representative from each of—

(I)

the Department of Health and Human Services, including the Service;

(II)

the Environmental Protection Agency;

(III)

the Department of Housing and Urban Development;

(IV)

the Department of the Interior;

(V)

the Department of Agriculture;

(VI)

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;

(VII)

the Department of Transportation;

(VIII)

tribal organizations;

(IX)

Tribal environmental health programs;

(X)

Tribal health directors; and

(XI)

the organization described in section 12(7) of the Native Hawaiian Health Care Improvement Act (42 U.S.C. 11711(7)); and

(B)

may include a representative of Native youth.

(b) Purpose

The purpose of the Task Force shall be to serve as a coordinating body to protect the environmental health of Native children through cross-agency collaboration, including by—

(1)

identifying and addressing environmental health hazards that disproportionately affect Native children;

(2)

enhancing coordination among Federal, State, and Tribal agencies, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations on environmental health issues affecting Native children;

(3)

developing and implementing culturally appropriate solutions to environmental health challenges in Native communities;

(4)

leveraging resources across Federal, State, and Tribal agencies to maximize impact and efficiency of environmental health programs that serve Native communities;

(5)

strengthening capacity among Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations to address environmental health threats through technical assistance and resource sharing;

(6)

ensuring environmental health interventions respect Tribal sovereignty and incorporate traditional ecological knowledge;

(7)

promoting environmental justice for Native children and their communities; and

(8)

reducing administrative burdens on Tribal-serving and Native Hawaiian-serving environmental health programs through streamlined processes and integrated systems.

(c) Duties

The Task Force shall develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan to address environmental health threats to Native children, including dust, mold, sanitation challenges, contaminated lands from mining, industrial wastes, abandoned uranium mines, pesticides from agricultural operations, oil spills, groundwater contamination, wildfire smoke inhalation, and other natural disasters.

(d) Consultation

The Task Force shall consult and engage with Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, as appropriate, in developing and implementing all protocols and processes under this section.

(e) Annual report

Annually, the Task Force shall submit to Congress a report on the implementation of this section, including any outcomes and recommendations, as applicable.

Sec. 402. Integration of environmental health within primary care

Sec. 501. Tribal pilot programs for SNAP administration

The Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

31. Tribal pilot programs for SNAP administration

(a) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Tribal pilot participant

The term Tribal pilot participant means a covered Indian entity (as defined in subsection (b)(1)) or an Indian Tribe that is participating in a pilot program under this section.

(2) Tribal service population

The term Tribal service population means households residing within the service area identified by, as applicable—

(A)

a covered Indian entity (as defined in subsection (b)(1)) under subsection (b)(4)(A)(iii); or

(B)

an Indian Tribe under subsection (c)(2)(A)(iii).

(b) Alaska Tribal pilot program

(1) Definition of covered Indian entity

In this subsection, the term covered Indian entity means—

(A)

each of the 12 regional nonprofit corporations established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.); and

(B)

the Metlakatla Indian Community of the Annette Islands Reserve.

(2) Establishment

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall establish a pilot program (referred to in this subsection as the pilot program) under which the Secretary shall award a grant to at least 1 covered Indian entity each fiscal year to administer all or portions of the supplemental nutrition assistance program within the Tribal service area of the covered Indian entity.

(3) Grant duration

The term of a grant awarded under the pilot program shall be 3 years, which may be extended for an additional 3 years, as determined by the Secretary.

(4) 3-year plan

(A) In general

A covered Indian entity seeking a grant under the pilot program shall submit to the Secretary a 3-year plan that—

(i)

describes how the covered Indian entity will administer the supplemental nutrition assistance program consistent with this Act;

(ii)

specifies whether benefits and administrative functions will be provided directly or through agreements, contracts, compacts, or consortia arrangements;

(iii)

identifies the Tribal service populations and service areas to be served;

(iv)

identifies employment opportunities in or near the service areas and the manner in which the covered Indian entity will cooperate in enhancing those opportunities consistent with applicable Federal standards; and

(v)

describes financial management, program integrity, accountability, and data security procedures.

(B) Review

The Secretary shall review the plan submitted under subparagraph (A) in accordance with subsection (e).

(C) Determination

Not later than 90 days after receiving a plan under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall approve or deny the plan.

(5) Amount determined

(A) In general

The amount of a grant awarded to a covered Indian entity under the pilot program shall be the amount attributable to expenditures for Tribal service populations identified under paragraph (3)(A)(iii).

(B) Use of State-submitted data

(i) In general

The Secretary shall use data submitted by the State of Alaska to calculate the payment amount under subparagraph (A).

(ii) Disagreement with determination

If a covered Indian entity disagrees with the data described in clause (i), the covered Indian entity may submit additional information to the Secretary for consideration.

(6) Reduction in State administrative payments

The Secretary shall reduce the Federal administrative payments otherwise payable to the State of Alaska under section 16 by the amount attributable to administrative functions assumed by a covered Indian entity receiving a grant under the pilot program.

(c) Lower-48 Tribal pilot program

(1) In general

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall establish a pilot program (referred to in this subsection as the pilot program) under which the Secretary shall award grants to at least 5 Indian Tribes to administer all or portions of the supplemental nutrition assistance program within Tribal service areas.

(2) Administration plan

(A) In general

An Indian Tribe seeking a grant under the pilot program shall submit to the Secretary a plan that—

(i)

describes how the Indian Tribe will administer the supplemental nutrition assistance program consistent with this Act;

(ii)

specifies whether benefits and administrative functions will be provided directly or through agreements, contracts, or compacts, including agreements with relevant State agencies;

(iii)

identifies the Tribal service populations and service areas to be served;

(iv)

describes financial management, program integrity, accountability, and data security procedures; and

(v)

identifies employment opportunities in or near the service areas and the manner in which the Indian Tribe will cooperate in enhancing those opportunities consistent with applicable Federal standards.

(B) Review

The Secretary shall review the plan submitted under subparagraph (A) in accordance with subsection (e).

(C) Approval

Not later than 90 days after receiving a plan under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall approve or deny the plan.

(3) Cooperative agreements

Each Indian Tribe participating in the pilot program shall enter into a cooperative agreement with the Secretary and the applicable State agency regarding administration, data sharing, eligibility coordination, program integrity, and operational responsibilities.

(4) Phased expansion

(A) Initial participation

For the first fiscal year in which the pilot program is implemented, the Secretary shall select at least 5 Indian Tribes to participate in the pilot program.

(B) Additional participants

For each fiscal year following the first fiscal year described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall approve participation in the pilot program of not more than 5 additional Indian Tribes.

(C) Priority

In selecting Indian Tribes to participate in the pilot program, the Secretary shall prioritize geographic diversity, demonstrated administrative capacity, and Tribal communities that have previously worked with States on administering the supplemental nutrition assistance program in those communities.

(5) Direct Federal funding

The Secretary shall provide funding directly to Indian Tribes participating in the pilot program without requiring pass-through agreements with States.

(d) Administration

In participating in a pilot program under this section, a Tribal pilot participant shall—

(1)

subject to waiver by the Secretary, comply with requirements comparable to requirements applicable to State agencies administering the supplemental nutrition assistance program;

(2)

prohibit households from receiving duplicative assistance;

(3)

comply with section 5(f)(1) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5305(f)(1)); and

(4)

maintain fiscal accountability consistent with generally accepted accounting principles.

(e) Tribal administrative capacity

(1) In general

In reviewing a plan under subsection (b)(3) or (c)(2), the Secretary shall consider the demonstrated administrative capacity of the Tribal pilot participant, which may include experience administering federally funded Tribal programs, including—

(A)

a Tribal family assistance program operated under section 412 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 612);

(B)

programs operated under contracts or compacts authorized by the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5301 et seq.);

(C)

employment and training programs under section 6(d)(4);

(D)

programs administered under the Indian Employment, Training and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992 (25 U.S.C. 3401 et seq.); or

(E)

other public assistance, nutrition, workforce development, or social service programs administered by the Tribal pilot participant.

(2) No additional burdensome requirements

The Secretary shall not impose on Tribal pilot participants requirements relating to administrative capacity that are more burdensome than requirements applied to States administering the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

(f) Technical assistance

The Secretary shall provide funding to a Tribal organization to provide technical assistance, training, and implementation support to Tribal pilot participants to facilitate successful administration of the pilot programs under this section.

(g) Exemptions and State protections

(1) Exemption from matching fund requirements

Households within a Tribal service population that is served pursuant to this section shall not be included in calculating under this Act—

(A)

any State payment error rate;

(B)

any State matching fund requirement;

(C)

any State financial liability or penalty relating to payment accuracy; or

(D)

any State cost obligation under section 4(a)(2).

(2) Exemption from administrative cost sharing

Of the administrative costs incurred by Tribal pilot participants under this section—

(A)

100 percent shall be reimbursed by the Secretary; and

(B)

0 percent shall be subject to administrative cost-sharing requirements applicable to States under section 16.

(3) Preservation of existing Tribal exemptions

Nothing in this section affects the application of subparagraphs (F) and (G) of section 6(o)(3).

(4) No State penalties

A State shall not be penalized, financially or administratively, based on Tribal service populations that are served pursuant to this section, including with respect to—

(A)

matching fund requirements;

(B)

administrative cost-sharing requirements;

(C)

work requirement compliance calculations;

(D)

payment error rates; or

(E)

administrative performance measures.

(h) Report to Congress

Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall evaluate, and submit to Congress a report on, with respect to the pilot programs carried out under this section—

(1)

participant access and food security outcomes;

(2)

administrative efficiency;

(3)

payment accuracy and program integrity;

(4)

Tribal self-sufficiency outcomes; and

(5)

recommendations relating to whether those pilot programs should be continued, expanded, modified, or made permanent.

(i) Rule of construction

Nothing in this section diminishes—

(1)

the trust responsibility of the United States to Indian Tribes; or

(2)

the sovereign authority of Indian Tribes.

Sec. 502. Child nutrition programs Tribal pilot projects

Sec. 601. Program for housing assistance for homeless American Indians and Alaska Natives

Sec. 602. Program for housing assistance for homeless Native Hawaiians

Title VIII of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 (25 U.S.C. 4221 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

825. Program for housing assistance for homeless Native Hawaiians

(a) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Domestic violence

The term domestic violence has the meaning given the term in section 40002(a) of the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (34 U.S.C. 12291(a)).

(2) Eligible Native Hawaiian

The term eligible Native Hawaiian means a Native Hawaiian who is homeless or at risk of homelessness, as defined in sections 103 and 401 of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11302, 11360).

(3) Eligible recipient

The term eligible recipient means the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, a Native Hawaiian Organization, or a Native Hawaiian community-based organization.

(4) Homeless youth

The term homeless youth has the meaning given the term in section 387 of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (34 U.S.C. 11279).

(5) Native Hawaiian organization; Native Hawaiian community-based organization

The terms Native Hawaiian organization and Native Hawaiian community-based organization have the meanings given those terms in section 6207 of the Native Hawaiian Education Act (20 U.S.C. 7517).

(6) Program

The term Program means the program established under subsection (b).

(7) Secretary of the Interior

The term Secretary of the Interior means the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Office of Native Hawaiian Relations.

(b) Establishment

(1) In general

The Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of the Interior, shall establish and administer a grant program to provide rental assistance and supportive housing services for Native Hawaiians who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, to be known as the Native Hawaiian Homeless Housing Assistance Grant Program.

(2) Purpose

The purpose of this section is to establish a supportive housing competitive grant program that—

(A)

provides rental assistance for Native Hawaiians who are homeless or at risk of homelessness;

(B)

integrates supportive services and case management;

(C)

prioritizes homeless youth, families with children, and survivors of domestic violence;

(D)

strengthens Native Hawaiian self-determination in housing administration; and

(E)

reduces and prevents homelessness in Native Hawaiian populations.

(3) Management

Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Secretary shall administer the Program in a manner similar to the program under section 8(o)(19) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437f(o)(19)) and the demonstration program established under paragraph (5) under the heading Tenant-based rental assistance under the heading Public and Indian Housing in title II of division K of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Public Law 113–235; 128 Stat. 2732), in accordance with the regulations promulgated to carry out those programs.

(4) Authorization

Of the amounts made available for grants under title IV of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11360 et seq.) each fiscal year, the Secretary may make available not more than 0.2 percent of such amounts to carry out this section.

(c) Consultation

The Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of the Interior, shall consult with eligible recipients to ensure effective delivery of grants under the Program.

(d) Application

Each eligible recipient applying for a grant under the Program shall submit to the Secretary an application that describes how the eligible recipient will provide 2 years of mandatory case management services to eligible Native Hawaiians under the Program, including in partnership with other qualified organizations, when appropriate.

(e) Use of funds

(1) Supportive services

(A) In general

An eligible recipient receiving a grant under the Program—

(i)

may use the grant to provide supportive services to eligible Native Hawaiians; and

(ii)

shall determine the supportive services that are necessary and appropriate to prevent or end homelessness, reducing housing instability, preserving family unity where housing instability is a contributing factor, or promote long-term housing stability.

(B) Flexibility

An eligible recipient receiving a grant under the Program shall determine the nature, scope, and delivery of supportive services described in subparagraph (A), which may include services to address behavioral health needs, substance use disorders, transportation barriers, employment and education needs, child welfare involvement, domestic violence, or other barriers to housing stability identified by the eligible recipient.

(C) Deference to Native Hawaiian determination

The Secretary—

(i)

shall defer to the determination of an eligible recipient regarding the design, scope, and delivery of supportive services under subparagraph (B), including culturally appropriate and traditional services identified by the eligible recipient; and

(ii)

may not require a showing that a specific service category is authorized under any other Federal housing or homeless assistance program, provided that the eligible recipient determines and documents that the services are reasonably related to the housing stability for eligible Native Hawaiians.

(f) Priority

An eligible recipient that receives a grant under the Program shall prioritize providing assistance to homeless youth, families with children, and survivors of domestic violence.

(g) Funding criteria

Grants awarded under the Program shall be based on need, administrative capacity, service of homeless youth, families with children, and survivors of domestic violence, and other criteria established by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Native Hawaiian Relations in the Department of the Interior and eligible recipients.

(h) Administration and waiver authority

The Secretary may—

(1)

waive, or specify alternative requirements for, any provision of any statute or regulation that the Secretary administers in connection with the use of funds made available under the Program (except for requirements related to fair housing, nondiscrimination, labor standards, and the environment), upon a finding by the Secretary that any such waivers or alternative requirements are necessary for the effective delivery and administration of such assistance; and

(2)

by regulation provide for the release of funds for specific projects to eligible recipients under this section if the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands assumes all of the responsibilities for environmental review, decisionmaking, and action pursuant to section 806(a)(1)(B).

(i) Renewal grants

The Secretary may set aside amounts made available under subsection (b)(4) for renewal grants under the Program and define renewal criteria, including data reporting.

(j) Study on barriers to implementation

Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this section, and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of the Interior, shall review and submit to Congress a report on the implementation of the Program, including any recommendations to improve the Program and its implementation.

Sec. 603. Tribal Continuum of Care Participation Grant Program

Sec. 604. Improving Tribal participation in the Continuum of Care Program

Title IV of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11360 et seq.) is amended—

Sec. 701. Strengthening the 477 Initiative

Sec. 702. Interagency agreement to evaluate on-site child care in affordable housing

Sec. 703. Set-aside of Child Care and Development Block Grant funds for Indian Tribes

Section 658O(a)(2) of the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858m(a)(2)) is amended, in subparagraphs (A) and (B), by striking 2 percent and inserting 5 percent.

Sec. 704. Requirement of consultation with Indian Tribes

Section 658O(c) of the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858m(c)) is amended by adding at the end the following:

(7) Consultation

In establishing requirements, including requirements relating to applications, under this subsection, the Secretary shall consult with Indian tribes and tribal organizations (including such tribes that are Alaska Native villages or regional or village corporations, and including Native Hawaiian organizations and other organizations described in section 658P(15)(B)), experts in Indian early childhood education and development, linguists, and the National Indian Child Care Association.

Sec. 705. Native American Advisory Committee on Early Childhood

The Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9857 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

658T. Native American Advisory Committee on Early Childhood

(a) Establishment

(1) In general

The Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Children and Families (referred to in this section as the Secretary), shall establish within the Office of Early Childhood Development an advisory committee to be known as the Native American Advisory Committee on Early Childhood.

(2) Purpose

The Committee shall facilitate, but not supplant, government-to-government consultation between the Secretary and Indian tribes on matters relating to early childhood development of American Indian and Alaska Native children.

(b) Membership

(1) Composition

The Committee shall be composed of 15 members, appointed in accordance with paragraphs (2) and (3), as follows:

(A)

1 representative from each of the 12 service areas of the Indian Health Service.

(B)

1 representative from the National Indian Child Care Association.

(C)

1 representative from the National Indian Head Start Association.

(D)

1 representative from a national urban Indian organization.

(2) Appointment

The Secretary shall appoint the members of the Committee from nominations submitted by Indian tribes, tribal organizations, urban Indian organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations.

(3) Qualifications

To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall ensure that—

(A)

members of the Committee—

(i)

represent diverse geographic regions, including Alaska and Hawai‘i;

(ii)

have expertise in Tribally led early childhood education efforts; and

(iii)

have expertise in areas such as early childhood development, Tribal child care, or public health; and

(B)

not fewer than 1 member represents Native youth.

(4) Terms

(A) In general

Each member of the Committee shall be appointed for a term of 3 years.

(B) Reappointment

Members of the Committee may be reappointed for not more than 2 consecutive terms.

(C) Vacancies

Vacancies in the membership of the Committee shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment for the remainder of the term.

(c) Duties

The Committee shall—

(1)

identify emerging issues affecting the early childhood of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children;

(2)

propose solutions and provide recommendations, with respect to American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children—

(A)

to improve programs for Tribes that support early childhood education and development;

(B)

to improve access to child care;

(C)

to enhance culturally appropriate care; and

(D)

to strengthen early childhood data collection and surveillance;

(3)

provide guidance on Tribal consultation for early childhood initiatives;

(4)

identify interdepartmental barriers and propose solutions for coordination between the Administration for Children and Families and—

(A)

the Indian Health Service;

(B)

the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services;

(C)

the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; and

(D)

the Department of the Interior; and

(5)

advise on integration of traditional American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian practices in early childhood development programs.

(d) Meetings

(1) In general

The Committee shall meet in person not less frequently than twice each year.

(2) Agency representation

The Assistant Secretary for Children and Families (or a designee) shall attend each meeting of the Committee.

(e) Reporting

(1) Committee reports

Not less frequently than annually, the Committee shall submit to the Secretary and the relevant committees of Congress a report on—

(A)

the activities of the Committee;

(B)

early childhood education and child care challenges affecting Tribal communities; and

(C)

recommendations for legislative and administrative actions.

(2) Agency response

Not later than 45 days after receiving a report under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit a written response to—

(A)

the Committee; and

(B)

the relevant committees of Congress.

(f) Compensation

(1) In general

Members of the Committee shall serve without compensation.

(2) Reimbursement

Members of the Committee shall be reimbursed for travel, subsistence, and other necessary expenses incurred in the course of carrying out the duties of Committee.

(g) Support

At the request of the Committee, the Secretary shall appoint such administrative and staff support to the Committee to enable the Committee to carry out the duties of the Committee.

(h) Applicability of FACA

Chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the Federal Advisory Committee Act), shall not apply to the Committee.

(i) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Committee

The term Committee means the Native American Advisory Committee on Early Childhood established under subsection (a)(1).

(2) Native youth

The term Native youth means an individual—

(A)

who is 24 years of age or less; and

(B)

who is an American Indian, an Alaska Native, or a Native Hawaiian.

(3) Relevant committees of congress

The term relevant committees of Congress means—

(A)

the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate;

(B)

the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate; and

(C)

the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives.

(j) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $200,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

Sec. 801. Supporting Native American teacher training and teacher development

Section 311 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1057) is amended—

Sec. 802. Pilot program for Native teacher apprentices

Sec. 803. Supporting after-school programs for Native American children

Section 6115(b) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7425(b)) is amended—

Sec. 804. Promoting and strengthening Native languages

Sec. 805. Addressing the indirect administrative costs of Indian education programs

Sec. 806. Increasing access to Head Start for Native children

Sec. 807. Addressing homelessness in BIE schools

Section 722(c)(2) of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11432(c)(2)) is amended—

Sec. 808. Bureau of Indian Education Behavioral Health and Wellness Program

Part B of title XI of the Education Amendments of 1978 (25 U.S.C. 2000 et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 1139 (25 U.S.C. 2019) the following:

1139A. Behavioral Health and Wellness Program

(a) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Eligible recipient

The term eligible recipient means any student or staff or faculty member at a Bureau-funded school.

(2) Program

The term program means the Behavioral Health and Wellness Program established under subsection (b).

(3) Secretary

The term Secretary means the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Bureau of Indian Education.

(b) Establishment

The Secretary shall establish a program, to be known as the Behavioral Health and Wellness Program, to fill existing behavioral health gaps across Bureau-funded schools, including dormitories.

(c) Services

In carrying out the Program, the Secretary shall provide to eligible recipients, subject to the availability of funding, and at the discretion of the leadership of the applicable Bureau-funded school—

(1)

virtual counseling services;

(2)

a hotline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for immediate crisis support relating to behavioral health;

(3)

crisis response and support services; and

(4)

such other behavioral health services as determined appropriate by the Secretary.

(d) Contracting authority

For purposes of providing any service described in subsection (c), the Secretary may enter into a contract, memorandum of understanding, or interagency agreement, as applicable, with—

(1)

a relevant Federal partner; or

(2)

an entity that has a demonstrated record of providing behavioral health services and working with tribes, Bureau-funded schools, and Indian students.

(e) Training and technical assistance

The Secretary may provide training and technical assistance to Bureau-funded schools that implement services described in subsection (c) or any other additional behavioral health services.

(f) Continuation of program

The program carried out under this section shall be a continuation of the Behavioral Health and Wellness Program carried out by the Bureau of Indian Education that terminated on January 31, 2026.

(g) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the program $8,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

Sec. 809. Alaska Tribal School Program