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

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

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

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

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

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.

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…

This is the last year of a two-term President, and I think there are many that have said there has been time that was wasted here.

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.

Making sure that they have hope, that they do not view suicide as an answer or that they turn to substance abuse that not only takes them down but their families down and their whole communities is just so key.

So you sound relatively certain that the hospital provider agreement will not be terminated, that services will still continue as you are working through these issues; is that correct?

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

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

We believe that there is authority within the administration to grant regulatory waivers, but it hasn't taken action to ensure that the benefits of open enrollment and protection from cost-sharing would be available to all Indians.

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

What is Indian Health Service doing to collaborate with SEARHC in the development of a plan moving forward?

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

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

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

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.

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

Last week I joined with Senator Leahy to introduce S. 2612 which will enable the full implementation of this agreement.

With a signature of that ROD, we are really very excited for a host of different reasons.

the failings of the Choice program in Alaska.