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NCAI Welcomes FY 2026 DOI Appropriations Bill, Calls for Quick Passage in Senate

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has commended the House Appropriations Committee for passing the FY 2026 Department of the Interior (DOI) appropriations bill, praising the significant levels of funding allocated for Tribal Nations. The bill provides critical support for essential tribal services, including health services, social services, and education. NCAI President Mark Macarro acknowledged that the legislation is a step in the right direction but highlighted that Indian Country remains underfunded. The organization looks forward to hosting the Tribal Interior Budget Council next month and will begin formulating its FY 2028 budget request to the Department of Interior.

Key Takeaways:

  • The FY 2026 Department of the Interior appropriations bill passed by the House Appropriations Committee provides significant funding for Tribal Nations, supporting essential tribal services such as health services, social services, and education.
  • The bill represents a step in the right direction, but NCAI acknowledges that Indian Country continues to be underfunded.
  • The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) commends the efforts of Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and their colleagues in the House for ensuring tribal priorities and programs are supported in this spending bill.
  • The Senate is called upon to conform its appropriations levels to those of the House to ensure timely passage and minimize disruption to tribal services.
  • NCAI looks forward to hosting the Tribal Interior Budget Council next month and will begin formulating its FY 2028 budget request to the Department of Interior.
  • The organization emphasizes the need for quick passage of the bill to prevent further delays and interruptions to essential tribal services.

Statistics:

  • The FY 2026 Department of the Interior appropriations bill provides funding for Tribal Nations, specifically for essential services such as:

+ Health services

+ Social services

+ Education

+ Public safety and justice programs

  • The bill represents a significant step in supporting tribal priorities and programs.
  • Indian Country continues to be underfunded, with NCAI highlighting the need for sustained and increased funding.

Sources:

  • National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), "NCAI on the Passage of the DOI Appropriations Bill" (July 24, 2025)

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