Bill > S2771

This bill establishes advance appropriations authority for several key Indian programs across two federal departments, specifically the Department of the Interior and the Department of Health and Human Services. For the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Indian Education, and Indian Health Service, the bill allows Congress to appropriate funding not just for the upcoming fiscal year, but also to provide advance budget authority for the following fiscal year, beginning in 2026. This means these agencies will have more predictable and stable funding, which can help with long-term planning. The bill requires the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Health and Human Services to submit detailed estimates of necessary funds for specific accounts, including Indian Health Services, Contract Support Costs, Tribal Lease Payments, Education Programs, and Construction. Additionally, each agency must submit an annual report by July 31st consulting with Indian Tribes, detailing the sufficiency of their resources and providing workload and demand data. The bill also modifies various existing laws to ensure comprehensive budget transparency and consistent reporting for these critical Indian program accounts, ultimately aiming to improve financial planning and support for Native American communities.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2771/all-info