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Bill would require state reporting of federal funds flowing to tribes, sponsors say it improves transparency
Summary
Sen. Wendy Boyd and tribal supporters presented SB303 to require state departments to report federal dollars and indirect costs sent to tribes, creating public reports for the director of Indian affairs and tribal nations to improve visibility and accountability.
Senate Bill 303, sponsored by Sen. Wendy Boyd, would require state departments to report federal funds allocated to tribes and disclose indirect or administrative costs. Boyd said the bill is intended to improve transparency and accountability so tribes can see what funding is provided and how much is retained for indirect costs.
Patrick Yawaki, representing the Blackfeet Tribe and other tribal communities, testified in support and said the reporting requirement would create a comprehensive picture of allocations and program administration, helping tribal governments identify funding gaps and improve coordination with state agencies. Boyd and proponents described scenarios where indirect costs of 15–17 percent reduce the funds available to tribes and argued the reports should be publicly available on the director of Indian affairs' website and shared with Montana Tribal Nations.
Committee members asked whether prior versions were vetoed and what objections the governor raised; Boyd said a prior veto cited possible interference with government‑to‑government consultations but proponents said the aim is transparency, not hampering consultation. The hearing concluded with proponents urging a due pass recommendation.
