Thomas Daschle: “with regard to this amendment, let me simply say there is a realization, I think on both sides of the aisle, that we…”

“with regard to this amendment, let me simply say there is a realization, I think on both sides of the aisle, that we have a special relationship with our tribal governments, and that special relationship requires a special arrangement as situations like this are addressed. It is very important that we recognize the issue of tribal sovereignty, and also the need for tribes to take responsibility for addressing the serious problems that they face, both socially and economically. The Dole bill would require that funding be provided to tribes out of the allocation given to each State. This amendment simply says we are going to set aside 3 percent of the resources allocated nationally before the money is given to the States. The allotment formula for distributing money from the set-aside would be determined by the Secretary, but it would be based on the need for services and on data common to all tribes, to the extent that is possible. We also allow tribes to borrow from the contingency loan fund. Tribes would be able to borrow up to 10 percent of their grant allocation, and the Secretary may waive the interest requirement or extend the time repayment period at times when circumstances would warrant. I do not know that there is any place in the country more deserving and more in need of special attention than reservations. The poverty rate for Indian children on reservations is three times the national average, 60.3 percent. Per capita U.S. income is about $14,420.”