Murkowski Seeks Comments On Legislation To Support Native Children And Families
- Skenandore Wilson LLP
- Aug 8
- 1 min read
Updated: Aug 21
08/08/2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 1, 2025, Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, released draft legislation to significantly improve the well-being and future opportunities for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children and families. Chairman Murkowski is seeking comments on the legislation by September 12, 2025. Comments should be submitted by email to: Murkowski_Outreach@Indian.Senate.Gov
The proposed legislation is based on the groundbreaking work of the Alyce Spotted Bear and Walter Soboleff Commission on Native Children. The Commission travelled throughout Indian Country to hear Native communities describe their vision of what is needed to support Native communities, children, and youth in the future. The Commission’s February 2024 final report, “The Way Forward,” was based on hearings, research, and study and provided recommendations for legislation to improve Native youth education, welfare, health, and safety.
The draft legislation includes provisions that would provide for child welfare reform, juvenile justice improvements, comprehensive health services, housing and homelessness solutions, educational support, and expanded childcare access. The bill also prioritizes strengthening research and data infrastructure to ensure future policies are grounded in accurate, comprehensive information about the experiences and needs of Native youth.
Skenandore Wilson LLP is dedicated to the representation of Tribal Nations, Tribal entities, and individual Tribal members throughout Indian Country. Our mission is to support and advance the sovereignty, self-sufficiency, and self-governance of our Tribal clients. To learn more about how we can assist you, contact us at info@skenandorewilson.com or 608-608-1210.
