Reznet

Obama Signs Stimulus Bill Containing Nearly $3 Billion for Tribes

By Adam McMullin

National Congress of American Indians President Joe A. Garcia released the following statement on President  Obama's signing of the American Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Plan of 2009, which includes nearly $3 billion in tribal provisions.

"I applaud Congress and President Obama for including tribal governments in this legislation to help heal the U.S. economy," Garcia said. "As governments, we must seize this opportunity, act quickly and be prepared to contribute to the economic recovery of our great nation.

"This is a time for tribal leaders to be vigilant, responsive and accountable so that these funds are not only used to lift Native communities out of a decades-old depression but to also help lift this country out of its current recession.

"We owe it to the country and our fellow citizens to do our part," Garcia said. "As President Obama has kept his commitment to include tribes in this important legislation, Indian Country stands ready to be sound, efficient and timely stewards of the funds set aside for our communities."

Adam McMullin is the communications director of the National Congress of American Indians in Washington, D.C.