NCUIH Urges Administration and Congress to Honor Trust Responsibility in FY26 Budget

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 5, 2025)– On May 2, the President released the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget proposal. The FY 2026 proposal serves as a statement of the Administration’s policy and funding priorities. The budget acts primarily as a symbolic blueprint of the President’s vision for the size and scope of the federal government. The final appropriations will be determined through the Congressional budget process.

The President’s funding request overview states that the Administration will “Maintain Support for Tribal Nations”, stating, “the Budget preserves Federal funding for the Indian Health Service and supports core programs at the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian Education, sustaining the Federal Government’s support for core programs that benefit tribal communities.” It also indicates plans to “streamline other programs for tribal communities, to reduce inefficiencies and eliminate funding for programs and activities found to be ineffective.” The proposal for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) outlines a 26.2% reduction to the overall HHS budget, amounting to $33.3 billion in cuts.

Note: Detailed agency-level budget requests are expected in the coming weeks. As such, the Indian Health Service (IHS) and Urban Indian Health line items have not yet been released. It is unclear if any programs in the Indian Health Services are proposed for elimination due to “inefficiencies”.

The CEO of NCUIH, Francys Crevier, J.D. (Algonquin), stated, “The trust responsibility for Native people extends beyond the Indian Health Service. We call on the Administration to honor its commitment to Native people and reconsider all cuts to programs serving Native communities. We further urge the administration to engage in Tribal consultation in recognition of the legal Nation-to-Nation relationship before undergoing any changes impacting Native people. Congress has long demonstrated bipartisan support for Tribal Nations and Native people, and we call upon our Congressional champions to ensure that the Indian Health Service and programs serving Native people receive the necessary resources to fulfill the trust responsibility.”

NCUIH has also joined the Coalition for Tribal Sovereignty to ensure that the administration and Congress honor the legal trust responsibility for health care for Native people. We stand with Tribal Nations in protecting all trust responsibilities and the Nation-to-Nation relationship. NCUIH opposes any cuts to programs serving Native communities.

NCUIH’s Engagement on FY26

  • On February 28, 2025, NCUIH Board President-Elect, Robyn Sunday-Allen, testified at the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, urging full funding for urban Indian health and the Indian Health System. In her testimony, Robyn Sunday-Allen said, “Historically, disruptions in funding to the Indian health system have resulted in loss of life… Our care is too critical to be paused or reduced.” Ensuring mandatory and full funding for the entire Indian Health System—Tribal facilities, IHS, and UIOs—is essential for saving lives.
  • NCUIH joined the Coalition for Tribal Sovereignty in a letter to Secretary Kennedy requesting that he appeal the OMB proposed cuts to critical Tribal programming.
  • Rep. Leger Fernandez is currently circulating a Dear Colleague letter to the leadership of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, requesting robust funding for Urban Indian Health. The deadline for Congressional members to sign on is May 15.

Next Steps

The administration is expected to release its full Budget in Brief in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the House and Senate Appropriations Committees will craft their respective FY 2026 funding bills. NCUIH will continue to engage with lawmakers to ensure the Indian Health System and all Tribal programs receive the resources they need.

Resources

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Honors Chairman Ron Allen, Governor Stephen Roe Lewis, Robyn Sunday-Allen, Janet Reeves, NORC, CDC Foundation, Adon Vazquez

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NCUIH honored Tribal leaders, Urban Indian Organization leadership and staff, and partner organizations for their work to advance the health of urban Native people. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 23, 2025)– The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented seven awards to Tribal leaders, Urban Indian Organization (UIO) leadership and staff, and partner organizations for their work to advance urban Native health during our 2025 Annual Conference. NCUIH thanks the awardees for their dedication to urban Native health, and their efforts to ensure that all Native people have access to high quality health care services, no matter where they live.

“Big tribe, small tribe, and no matter where our people are, wherever they reside, and often in urban centers, you have a right to health care too. The trust obligation is to Indian country, and no matter where our people are.” He added, “When I’m fighting for Indian Country, I’m fighting for you too.” – Chairman Ron Allen

Tribal Leader Impact Awards

Chairman Ron Allen (Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe) and Governor Stephen Roe Lewis (Gila River Indian Community)

The Tribal Leader Impact Awards were presented to Chairman Ron Allen, Chairman of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and President of the Self-Governance Communication and Education Tribal Consortium, and Governor Stephen Roe Lewis of the Gila River Indian Community. This award recognizes Tribal leaders whose dedication, leadership, and advocacy have directly impacted the health and well-being of Native people across Indian Country, including those in urban areas.

Chairman Allen has worked tirelessly with federal law and policymakers to protect and strengthen Tribal self-determination and improve Native health. Chairman Allen has played a key role in advancing systems that improve access to care for Native people in both Tribal and urban settings, ensuring that Native voices are not only heard, but respected and integrated into federal health policy.

 

 

 

Governor Lewis has championed innovative solutions to improve the health, sovereignty, and well-being of Native communities throughout Arizona. Through strategic advocacy and deep engagement with partners at every level—local, state, and federal, Governor Lewis has been instrumental in reinforcing essential funding streams for Arizona’s UIOs and amplifying the voice of Native populations throughout Arizona, both on Tribal lands in in urban settings.

Governor Stephen Roe Lewis (Gila River Indian Community)

Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award

Robyn Sunday-Allen (Cherokee Nation), CEO of the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic

The Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award was awarded to Robyn Sunday-Allen (Cherokee Nation), CEO of the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic and President-Elect of the NCUIH Board of Directors. This award honors an individual whose leadership and innovation have helped shape the future of Urban Indian health.

Ms. Sunday-Allen leads one of the largest UIOs in the country—serving 24,000 American Indian patients every year, and her exceptional leadership has expanded access to comprehensive health services, including primary care, dental, optometry, and behavioral health to Native people in Oklahoma. Ms. Sunday-Allen’s influence spreads beyond Oklahoma, as a longtime NCUIH board member, Ms. Sunday-Allen has a long track record of elevating the voices of urban Native people and UIOs nationwide.

 

Urban Indian Legacy Award

Janet Reeves, CEO of Nevada Urban Indians, Inc.

The Urban Indian Legacy Award was awarded to Janet Reeves, CEO of Nevada Urban Indians, Inc., who has dedicated her career to uplifting the health and wellness of Native people in urban settings. This award honors individuals who have advanced health care and advocacy, empowered communities, and preserved Indigenous culture along the way. Under her leadership, Nevada Urban Indians Inc. has become a trusted, culturally grounded resource for Native people in Nevada and her work has helped ensure that patients can access care that respects their traditions and meets their needs.

 

 

Native Health Partnership Excellence Award

NORC at the University of Chicago

The Native Health Partnership Excellence Award was awarded to NORC at the University of Chicago. This award recognizes outstanding collaboration by one of NCUIH’s partners to further Native health. Since 2014, NCUIH has proudly partnered with NORC on a growing body of research that uplifts the voices and needs of Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs). NORC’s partnership has supported NCUIH’s efforts in publishing reports on topics ranging from telehealth utilization and expansion to Medicaid Reimbursement for Traditional Healing Services, and turned NCUIH data into action. We are grateful for NORC’s continued collaboration, expertise, and commitment to advancing health care for Native people in urban communities across the country.

Native Health Rising Ally Award

CDC Foundation

The Native Health Rising Ally Award was awarded to the CDC Foundation. This award celebrates an emerging leader or organization outside of Native communities that has demonstrated powerful allyship in advancing Urban Indian health. The CDC Foundation has been a critical ally in addressing public health challenges in Indian Country—especially in urban areas.

 

 

Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award

Adon Vazquez (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians from North Carolina), American Indian Health and Family Services (AIHFS)

The Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award was awarded to Adon Vazquez (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians from North Carolina), Program Assistant for the Sacred Bundle Project at American Indian Health and Family Services (AIHFS) in Detroit, MI. This award recognizes a staff member of an Indian Health Service-funded Urban Indian Organization who demonstrates exceptional dedication, leadership, and service. As an integral part of the Sacred Bundle Project, Adon has worked tirelessly to bring not only suicide prevention, but tangible community-based tools to Native communities across Michigan. Adon is an incredible example of how UIOs can have a lasting impact on families and youth in our communities. Adon also served on NCUIH’s inaugural Youth Council.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org, 202-417-7781

NCUIH Urges HHS to Reconsider Proposed Budget Cuts to Indian Health Service and HHS

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, D.C. (April 18, 2025)– The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) sent a letter to Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), expressing deep concern over the proposed budget cuts to the Indian Health Service (IHS)  and HHS as outlined in the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) Fiscal Year 2026 Discretionary Budget Passback. The proposed reductions include nearly $900 million in cuts to the IHS budget and the elimination of IHS advance appropriations, which are crucial for protecting IHS funding from interruptions such as government shutdowns.The proposed changes would have detrimental effects on the health care delivery for American Indian and Alaska Native people across the United States including for Urban Indian Organizations and Tribal programs.  A recent report showed that 50% of Urban Indian Organizations could be forced to discontinue services within six months of funding disruptions.

“The proposed budget cuts are a direct threat to the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native communities. We call on Secretary Kennedy to honor his commitment to prioritizing Indian Country and appeal these proposed reductions. Lives are at stake and this could have catastrophic consequences,” said NCUIH CEO Francys Crevier, JD (Algonquin).

Impact of HHS Cuts on American Indian and Alaska Native Communities

In addition to the specific cuts to the IHS, NCUIH is concerned about the broader reductions in funding to several HHS programs impacting Native health. UIOs and tribal health facilities rely on HHS grants (e.g., SAMHSA, HRSA, CDC, and HIV/AIDS initiatives) to address disparities. For example, Tribal Behavioral Health Grants (Native Connections) are eliminated in the proposal. Tribes and Urban Indian Organizations receiving Native Connections funding will lose funding that addresses suicide, substance use, and trauma impacting American Indian and Alaska Native youth.

Secretary’s Commitment to Indian Country

NCUIH appreciates Secretary Kennedy’s recent visit to Native Health, an Urban Indian Organization located in Arizona that contracts with the Indian Health Service to provide critical services to Native people. Following this visit, Secretary Kennedy praised Native Health as a model of care that should be replicated and become the standard across Indian Country. He also expressed his commitment to prioritizing Indian Country in his efforts to improve health outcomes.

Call to Action

NCUIH urges Secretary Kennedy to appeal the proposed budget cuts and uphold the federal government’s trust obligations to American Indian and Alaska Native people.  NCUIH remains committed to working alongside HHS and the current administration to ensure that the IHS and other critical programs receive the necessary funding to effectively serve American Indian and Alaska Native communities. We call for immediate action to prevent the devastating impact of the proposed budget cuts and to support the health and well-being of Indian Country.

Read the Letter
Related News
Resources

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

Secretary Kennedy Visits Arizona Urban Indian Organization NATIVE HEALTH

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MESA, AZ (April 8, 2025)– Today, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited NATIVE HEALTH’S Mesa clinic to learn more about the vital work of Urban Indian Organizations as part of the Indian Health System. Secretary Kennedy is on a tour that includes a focus on “Tribal Health & Self-Governance” and a discussion with Navajo Nation leadership on food sovereignty initiatives.

“NATIVE HEALTH is a shining example of innovative health care in Arizona, demonstrating the success of services developed by Native people for Native people. Secretary Kennedy’s commitment to protecting the Indian Health Service, including Urban Indian Organizations, reflects a shared dedication to better health outcomes for all Native people. We are especially encouraged by his willingness to engage directly with the community, witnessing firsthand the innovation and success of programs like NATIVE HEALTH and listening to Native leaders. Together, we aim to build on this foundation, fostering collaboration and sustainable progress for future generations,” said NCUIH CEO Francys Crevier (Algonquin).


HHS Secretary Kennedy speaks with NCUIH President and NATIVE HEALTH CEO Walter Murillo (Choctaw) at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa.

Native Leaders Urge Secretary Kennedy to Honor Trust and Treaty Obligations

Recently, Secretary Kennedy met with the HHS Tribal Advisory Committee and promised to protect IHS from any administrative changes. On February 25, HHS also issued an Advisory Opinion reiterating the “legal obligation to provide health care for Indian Tribes and their citizens.” The advisory opinion affirms that during his first administration, President Trump sought to enhance federal programs addressing the concerns of American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Administrative changes have recently been announced at HHS, and NCUIH has called upon the administration to honor the advisory opinion so that programs for Tribes and their citizens do not become collateral damage during reform efforts. NCUIH is hopeful that the administration will continue to engage in opportunities to hear from Native leaders as we work together to uplift the health care of all Native people.


L to R:
Francys Crevier (Algonquin), JD, CEO of NCUIH
Kyu Rhee, President and CEO of the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC)
Secretary Kennedy
Jessica Yanow, President and CEO of the Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers
Walter Murillo (Choctaw), CEO of NATIVE HEALTH

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Statement on the Passing of Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva

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Congressman Raúl Grijalva

NCUIH is deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Raúl Grijalva, a fearless champion for Native communities whose impact will be felt for generations. His dedication to Native health and honoring trust and treaty obligations was more than just policy work—it was a reflection of his deep respect for Native people and communities.

Congressman Grijalva was a true ally in protecting and serving Native people, including the millions living in urban areas. His leadership was instrumental in securing the permanent reauthorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA), which strengthened and expanded health care access for all Native communities. He was a dedicated champion for secure and stable funding for the Indian Health Service (IHS) and Urban Indian Health programs. He played an important role in achieving advance appropriations for the IHS and led an annual letter to appropriators requesting full funding for both IHS and Urban Indian Health. He believed in Native-led solutions and never hesitated to stand alongside us as an ally.

“His legacy is not one of loss, but of progress—of doors opened, voices amplified, and a future where Native people continue to thrive. His work lives on in every policy he championed, and in the communities he uplifted,” said NCUIH CEO Francys Crevier (Algonquin).

We extend our gratitude for his unwavering commitment to Native health care and send our thoughts to his family, friends, and all those who walked alongside him on this journey.

May his path forward be as powerful as the one he carved here.

Congressman Raúl Grijalva

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

Congress Extends Government Funding Through September

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Maintains Advance Appropriations for Indian Health Service and Extends Funding for the Special Diabetes Program for Indians

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 14, 2025) – The House and Senate passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) to extend government funding set to expire on March 14, 2025, until September 30, 2025. The CR maintains advance appropriations for the Indian Health Service (IHS) and extends the Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI), Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities, Community Health Center Funding, and the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) funding. A more detailed analysis of the Continuing Resolution is below.

Read the Bill Text
Key Provisions

Indian Health Service:

  • Maintains advance appropriations for FY26 for the Indian Health Service (IHS).
  • Provides $38,709,000 anomaly for the IHS Services line item.
    • Includes $38,709,000 IHS Services anomaly as advance appropriations to “become available on October 1, 2025, and remain available through September 30, 2027.”
  •  Provides $3,920,000 anomaly for the IHS Facilities line item.
    • Includes $38,709,000 IHS Services anomaly as advance appropriations to “become available on October 1, 2025, and remain available until expended.”
  • Rescinds $17,023,000 earmarked for Sanitation Facilities Construction projects.

Special Diabetes Programs for Indians (SDPI)

  • Extends SDPI at “$79,832,215 for the period beginning on April 1, 2025, and ending on September 30, 2025, to remain available until expended.’’
    • This brings the total FY25 funding for SDPI to $159,422,727.00.

Community Health Centers (CHC)

  • Extends CHC at “$2,135,835,616 for the period beginning on April 1, 2025, and ending on September 30, 2025.”

Telehealth

  •  Extend flexibilities allowing for greater Medicare coverage of virtual health services until Sept. 30. The provisions, which stem from the Covid-19 pandemic, are set to expire March 31.
  • This provision allows federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), rural health clinics, and Medicare to pay for mental health telehealth services, without any in-person requirements. Without continuation of this provision, physicians would be required to provide an in-person service within the six months prior to beginning telehealth services.

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

  • Rescinds $890,788,000 in earmarked funds provided in FY24 for construction and renovation of health-care facilities and for training grants through HRSA.
  • Rescinds $72,090,000 in earmarked funds provided in FY24 for substance abuse and mental health projects.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

PRESS RELEASE: NCUIH Applauds the Invitation of Native Health Leaders at Joint Session of Congress

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 4, 2025) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) proudly recognizes the invitation of two esteemed Native health leaders to attend the upcoming Joint Session of Congress in Washington, D.C. Dr. Linda Son-Stone, CEO of First Nations Community HealthSource, has been invited as a guest of Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), while Walter Murillo, CEO of Native Health Phoenix and NCUIH Board President, will attend as a guest of Congressman Greg Stanton (AZ-04). Both Stansbury and Stanton are members of the Native American Caucus. The Joint Session of Congress presents an opportunity to emphasize the importance of honoring the federal trust responsibility to provide adequate healthcare to Native people.Both leaders have dedicated their careers to advocating for the health and well-being of urban Native populations. Their invitations are a recognition of the key role of Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) in providing healthcare to Native communities.

UIOs are nonprofit organizations funded by the Indian Health Service (IHS) to provide quality health care to Native Americans living in urban areas. Native Health, based in Phoenix, Arizona, delivers primary medical, behavioral health, and community wellness services to the urban Native population. First Nations Community HealthSource (FNCH), located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is the state’s only Urban Indian Organization and serves as a critical healthcare provider for Native and other underserved communities.

Stanton Emphasizes Importance of Native Health in Serving People on Medicaid

Stanton Emphasizes Importance of Native Health in Serving People on Medicaid

Congressman Stanton emphasized the importance of Murillo’s attendance in light of proposed Medicaid cuts that would disproportionately impact Native communities.

“Walter and the team at Native Health work every day to provide quality, affordable health care to Arizona’s urban Native population, and as many as half of their patients rely on AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System). I’m proud that Walter will be my guest at the President’s address to highlight why Congress should reject any budget that cuts Medicaid and takes away health care for Arizona families,” said Rep. Stanton.

Medicaid is the biggest source of funding for Urban Indian Organizations outside of the Indian Health Service (IHS). 37.4% of Native Arizonans are enrolled in Medicaid—including more than 53,000 Native Medicaid beneficiaries in Arizona’s Fourth Congressional District.

First Nations Community HealthSource: A Shining Light

First Nations Community HealthSource: A Shining Light

Similarly, Congresswoman Stansbury highlighted the innovative work of First Nations Community HealthSource as “the shining light of health care in New Mexico.” Stansbury, stated, “this clinic is a cornerstone of our community, providing holistic and wrap-around services that address the deep health disparities facing our Native populations. I am honored to have Dr. Linda Son-Stone, an extraordinary leader in urban Indian health, as my guest at the Joint Session of Congress” said Rep. Stansbury.

On February 27, Rep. Stansbury led 111 members of Congress in a letter urging the administration to reverse executive actions that are negatively impacting Tribal programs. Their support is particularly critical as proposed Medicaid cuts threaten the health care coverage of the 2.7 million Native Americans who rely on Medicaid.

The joint session airs tonight, March 4 at 9:00 pm ET, live on C-SPAN.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Board President-Elect Robyn Sunday-Allen Testifies on Importance of Native Health Care

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Robyn Sunday-Allen Testimony
WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 28, 2025)– On Thursday, National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) board president-elect and Oklahoma City Indian Clinic CEO Robyn Sunday-Allen (Cherokee) testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, urging full funding for urban Indian health and the Indian Health System.

Read Written Testimony

What They’re Saying: Congressional Support for Strengthening Indian Health Services

Chair Mike Simpson (ID-02-R) reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to advancing progress in Indian health care, acknowledging the long-standing failures in meeting treaty obligations.

“You have this committee standing behind you, doing everything we can to ensure we move forward—not backward—on our treaty obligations. The progress we’ve made so far is inadequate, but we are working to change how things are done,” Chair Simpson stated.

Chair Mike Simpson

Representative Jake Ellzey (TX-06-R) raised concerns about the rising cancer rates in Native communities including in urban areas of Texas, asking Ms. Sunday Allen for insights into potential causes. Ms. Sunday Allen discussed the complex interplay of social determinants, environmental exposure, and structural barriers limiting access to quality health care.

Why It Matters: The Urgency of Action

Protecting the Entire Indian Health System

  • Chronic Underfunding
    Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) are integral parts of the Indian Health System, which has been “chronically underfunded,” according to Ms. Sunday-Allen. Any disruptions in federal funding—including cuts, sequestrations, or hiring freezes—jeopardize lives and can force UIOs to consider staff furloughs or even suspending services.
  • “Our Care Is Too Critical to Be Paused”
    As Ms. Sunday-Allen testified: “Historically, disruptions in funding to the Indian health system have resulted in loss of life… Our care is too critical to be paused or reduced.” Ensuring mandatory and full funding for the entire Indian Health System—tribal facilities, the Indian Health Service (IHS), and UIOs—is essential for saving lives.
  • Cancer: The “New Diabetes” in Indian Country
    Ms. Sunday-Allen highlighted the alarming rise in cancer rates at the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic, noting that they now diagnose 15–20 new cancer cases each month. She emphasized that “cancer has become what I refer to as the new diabetes in Indian Country. It is ravaging our community like diabetes has done.” Increased resources and support are imperative to address this growing public health crisis.
Next Steps

NCUIH will continue to advocate for protecting and fully funding the Indian Health System–including UIOs, Tribes, and IHS—so that no Native person goes without life-saving care. NCUIH stands ready to work with Congress and federal agencies to ensure that all Native people have consistent, high-quality health care.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

STATEMENT: NCUIH Responds to HHS Advisory Opinion: Safeguarding Native Healthcare Amid Policy Shifts

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 26, 2025) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) welcomes the Advisory Opinion issued by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of General Counsel on February 25, 2025. This opinion reaffirms that recent Executive Orders do not alter the federal government’s trust responsibility to provide healthcare for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people. This opinion clarifies that recent Executive Orders do not alter the federal government’s distinct legal obligations to Indian Tribes and their citizens, as established by treaties, statutes, and the U.S. Constitution. It also notes that certain policies at Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities must comply with these Executive Orders.

This action reflects responsiveness to calls from Tribal leaders and Native organizations urging the administration to uphold its trust obligations. NCUIH has consistently advocated for the protection of the Indian health system, including Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs), which provide health services for AI/AN people.

Read Advisory Opinion

Francys Crevier (Algonquin), CEO of NCUIH, stated:

“We appreciate the Administration’s affirmation of the federal trust responsibility to provide healthcare for American Indian and Alaska Native people. Native-led Urban Indian Organizations play a critical role in delivering essential services to Native populations, and any policy changes must prioritize the health and well-being of our people.”

NCUIH calls on policymakers to continue listening to Tribal voices and Native organizations and uphold the federal trust responsibility without compromise. NCUIH remains steadfast in advocating for health care access for all Native communities.

Recent news:

PRESS RELEASE: Tribal Organizations Urge Administration to Respect Tribal Sovereignty and Uphold Trust and Treaty Obligations Amid Executive Actions (Feb. 3, 2025)

NCUIH Joins NIHB, NCAI and Self-Governance Communication and Education Tribal Consortium in Requesting the Indian Health System be Exempt from Federal Hiring Freezes (Feb 4, 2025)

IHS Employee Layoffs Halted After Urgent Advocacy Efforts (Feb. 19, 2025)

NCUIH Joins NIHB in Letter to Congressional Leadership Advocating for Protecting the Indian Health System from Funding Freezes (Feb. 25, 2025)

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

PRESS RELEASE: Tribal Organizations Urge Administration to Respect Tribal Sovereignty and Uphold Trust and Treaty Obligations Amid Executive Actions

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 3, 2025) – A coalition of Tribal organizations, representing Tribal Nations and their citizens and communities, is calling on the Administration to ensure that recent executive actions do not undermine the unique sovereign political status of Tribal Nations as sovereign nations with which the federal government has trust and treaty obligations, or disrupt federal funding that flows from those relationships for essential Tribal programs.

Following the issuance of multiple executive orders and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directives, concerns arose over freezes on federal funding that Tribal Nations and Tribal organizations, including urban Indian organizations, rely on to provide critical healthcare, economic development, education, and social services to Tribal communities. While OMB has since rescinded the initial memorandum, questions remain about how federal agencies will interpret and implement the Administration’s executive orders and policies moving forward.

Tribal Nations are not special interest groups—they are sovereign governments with a unique legal and political relationship with the United States and with their own Tribal communities. The trust and treaty obligations of the federal government are political and debt-based in nature.  Tribal Nations’ sovereignty and the federal government’s delivery on its trust and treaty obligations must not become collateral damage in broader policy shifts.

The coalition emphasizes that federal funding for Tribal programs is not discretionary, but rather a legal mandate owed under the United States’ trust and treaty obligations and the many statutes that carry them out. The organizations urge the Administration to explicitly recognize Tribal sovereignty and trust and treaty obligations in the implementation of all executive orders and priorities and to ensure that federal agencies provide clear guidance that protects Tribal programs from unnecessary disruption.

As the Administration advances its priorities, it must do so in a way that respects Tribal sovereignty, strengthens self-determination, and delivers on trust and treaty obligations. We stand ready to work with federal partners to ensure that all policies and decisions uphold the government-to-government relationship beteen the U.S. and Tribal Nations.

The coalition will continue to advocate for Tribal sovereignty and fulfillment of the trust and treaty obligations and ensure that the voices of Indian Country are heard in Washington. A full copy of the sign-on letter can be found here: https://qrco.de/letter2225.

List of National Tribal Organizations

American Indian Higher Education Consortium
Association on American Indian Affairs
Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians
California Tribal Chairpersons Association
Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council
Great Plains Tribal Chairmans Association
Indian Gaming Association
Inter-Tribal Association of Arizona
Midwest Alliance of Sovereign Tribes
Native American Finance Officers Association
National American Indian Court Judges Association
Native American Rights Fund
National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers
Native Forward Scholars Fund
National Congress of American Indians
National Council of Urban Indian Health
National Indian Child Welfare Association
National Indian Education Association
National Indian Health Board
Northern California Tribal Chairperson’s Association
Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council
Self-Governance Communication & Education Tribal Consortium
Southern California Tribal Chairmen’s Association
United South and Eastern Tribes

January 31, 2025 – National Council of Urban Indian Health Calls for Protection of Indian Health System Funding

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org