Norma Torres: “I stand here today in support of the legislation before us, the ``Indian Community Economic Enhancement Act,''--the…”

“I stand here today in support of the legislation before us, the ``Indian Community Economic Enhancement Act,''--the Senate companion to my bill in the House. For too long, lack of access to credit and community development have hampered the entrepreneurial spirit of Native American tribes. Yet, across the country, Native American entrepreneurs are ready to start new businesses, create jobs, and lift up their communities. My bill is a first step to change that. It updates and provides new resources to the Department of Commerce's Office of Native American Business Development. It ensures the Department of Health and Human Services is using Native American labor and industry products when appropriate. And, it authorizes the Administration for Native Americans to provide key financial assistance to Native American community development financial institutions. I want to thank my friend Congresswoman Haaland for co-leading this bill with me, and Senator Hoeven, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, for introducing and shepherding this bill in the Senate. The American people and Native communities, should be reassured that there is bipartisan commitment to improving lives in Indian Country. I urge my colleagues, to vote yes and join us in empowering the Native American entrepreneurs and communities who are building solutions for a better tomorrow. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Hawaii (Mr.…”