Lisa Murkowski

Our VA health system in Alaska is a mess. I referred to it last week as chaotic.

I think it is also important to consult with the tribes in the P.L. 280 States.

I have made tribal courts in Alaska a priority as well as other P.L. 280 States.

I want to make sure that Alaska and Alaska tribes are not underrepresented or misrepresented.

The Federal Government has a duty to consult with tribes and do so in a way that is meaningful, not just a check the box exercise.

I agree with you 100 percent. It is very much needed.

This helps, not only those who are serving our country, but everyone, everywhere.

What cold weather research efforts would benefit our soldiers conducting Arctic operations?

I appreciate that and just appreciate what you do there. Know that you've got a real advocate in me.

Those that would question the costs, I think, need to look to just the full brutal impact of this disease.

I appreciate you specifically highlighting the ALS research and the advancements that have been made.

Well, it's vitally important.

Very discouraging because, again, you don't get these notices unless there has been a long buildup, and what that long buildup means is that these people have been left behind, their health has potentially been compromised or put at risk…

The health care that they receive will be good and adequate and equal.

Well, then let me ask about another, because I understand that CMS has raised similar questions with regards to Pine Ridge Hospital, also in South Dakota, and they've also received a termination letter.

What we really need to know is that there is a plan going forward.

Thank you, Madam Chair.

Know that we will continue to try to work with you on this.

But I also understand that the ACA passed at the beginning of this administration. It is now the end of this administration.

I view what Katherine Gottlieb and those at South Central have done over the years with the Nuka model as not only innovative and pioneering, it's the way of the future.

I think there are so many other areas that we can look to. We're going to have a hearing this afternoon in Indian Affairs on the budget as it relates to Indian Affairs.

The need is great, and we appreciate the increase that we will see in this account.

I have had a lot of constituents coming to me over the years expressing some frustration about contract support costs.

I know that that continues to be a very, very high priority.

This has long been a priority of mine to make sure that full contract support costs are without question