U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, led a hearing to consider President Trump’s nominee for Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, Mr. William “Billy” Kirkland. The hearing focused on several key issues affecting tribal nations.
Senator Murkowski emphasized the importance of the Assistant Secretary's role in supporting Secretary Burgum and fulfilling the United States' trust responsibility to American Indian and Alaska Native tribes. "The Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs is an important position at the Interior Department," she stated.
Murkowski highlighted challenges such as serving over 500 federally recognized tribes and dealing with a reduced workforce in the department. She also criticized recent budget proposals for being inadequate.
During questioning, Murkowski addressed various concerns including probate backlog, public safety in rural communities, infrastructure needs due to climate change, and public broadcasting. On probate backlog, she noted cases dating back decades and stressed its impact on tribal sovereignty. "We are basically looking at about a 48,000 unresolved probate backlog—unacceptable by any measures," she said.
Regarding public safety, Murkowski discussed her efforts to develop new law enforcement models in rural Alaska following Attorney General Barr's visit which described it as a crisis situation.
Infrastructure and climate resilience were also key topics. As an author of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Murkowski advocated for $216 million funding for BIA’s Tribal Climate Resilience program. She urged Kirkland to ensure these funds are released promptly.
Murkowski concluded by discussing cuts to public broadcasting funding crucial for rural communities. She cited an example where public radio provided critical alerts during a recent earthquake near Alaska's coast.
Mr. Kirkland acknowledged these issues and committed to working with Senator Murkowski if confirmed.
The Committee will continue accepting written testimony until July 24, 2025.
