Tribes Receive Largest Single Investment in History of U.S. with American Rescue Plan

Signed into law by President Biden in March, the American Rescue Plan is investing $1.75 billion dollars in tribal communities across the U.S.

“The kinds of investing they’re making to support people to make sure there’s quality affordable housing and plenty of affordable healthcare, particularly in the middle of this pandemic,” said Senator Gary Peters. “It’s been, truly, a lifeline for many of those folks.”

Incoming Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs in the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bryan Newland, joined Senator Peters in Mackinaw City where they talked about the impact the funds will have on tribes across the state.

“Tribes are also still in the middle of the fight when it comes to battling COVID-19 and keeping people safe and healthy,” said Newland. “We’re working to support tribal governments to make sure they have the tools they need to keep people safe.”

Funding for the tribes won’t just help out their own communities.

“It’s not just benefitting tribal members,” said Newland. “It benefits communities surrounding tribes that depend on the economic development that tribes bring to the table in rural communities.”

Not only does the American Rescue Plan help out with the struggles of dealing with COVID, but also give tribes assistance in other areas as well.