To Our Partners in Tribal Health,

Today I am sharing a critical update regarding imminent plans by the Administration to drastically cut the federal workforce, including those providing essential services to Indian Country. These cuts would significantly harm health programs across Indian Country.



The National Indian Health Board (NIHB) is actively working with federal and Tribal partners to advocate against these detrimental cuts. We need your help to amplify our collective voice and urge Congress to fulfill its trust responsibility to Tribal nations.

Concerns Raised by Tribal Organizations:

Recent actions under Executive Order (EO) 14210 have mandated reductions in workforce across federal agencies, including positions critical to Indian Country. The Tribal Organization Coalition has expressed grave concern over these layoffs, emphasizing the potentially catastrophic effects on essential services like healthcare, law enforcement, education, and emergency response. A significant reduction in IHS staff, which already faces a 30% vacancy rate, could result in clinic closures and life-threatening lapses in care.

Key Points Highlighted by the Coalition:

• IHS, BIA, and BIE employees provide services mandated by federal trust and treaty obligations.
• Tribal Nations cannot afford to lose critical healthcare, public safety, and educational services.
• The layoffs will disproportionately impact Tribal communities, where federal employment is a vital economic foundation.
• Workforce reductions could cause delays in emergency response, increased crime, and negative health outcomes, including preventable deaths.

Here’s How You Can Take Action:

1. Contact Your Representatives: Call or email your congressional representatives to emphasize the importance of fully funding IHS and other Tribal health programs.
2. Spread the Word: Share this update with your networks to raise awareness of the urgent need to prevent workforce cuts that would be catastrophic for Tribal healthcare and other essential services.
3. Join Our Advocacy Campaign: Visit www.nihb.org to learn more about upcoming advocacy events and resources to support this cause.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to Tribal health. Together, we can ensure our communities receive the care and resources they need.

In solidarity,

AC Locklear

Interim NIHB CEO

Click below to find your representative. This tool helps you engage in advocacy efforts and stay informed on important legislation.

NIHB drafted a template letter for Tribes and Tribal organizations to send to HHS on the importance of working with Tribes during this administration. Feel free to add your information and any relevant stories or impact before sending.

The Tribal Organization Coalition drafted a letter outlining our grave concerns regarding the implementation of EO 14210 and the planned reductions in force. Read the full letter below.

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