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Committee tables bill to create DPHHS tribal‑relations team after agency says it’s already launched similar work
Summary
Senate Bill 378, proposing a tribal relations management team within the Department of Public Health and Human Services, was tabled after the sponsor noted the department has begun similar activity and tribal leaders asked for ongoing accountability.
Senate Public Health Committee considered Senate Bill 378, which would codify a tribal relations management team within the Department of Public Health and Human Services to formalize government‑to‑government communications with tribal governments.
Sponsor Senator Susan Webber said she introduced the bill at tribes’ request because tribal leaders reported reduced direct communication with DPHHS under the current administration. Several tribal representatives and advocates testified in favor of a permanent, statutory position to ensure consistent consultation and accountability.
Department witnesses later indicated they have begun implementing a similar Office of American Indian Health structure and that the department was already taking steps the bill sought to enshrine.
Given those developments, Senator Webber moved to table Senate Bill 378. The motion to table was accepted by the committee without objection; the chair announced the motion carried and the bill was tabled. Committee members and tribal advocates emphasized the need to ensure the department’s commitments continue and to monitor implementation of the newly created office.
