Letter to the Editor
The Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Reservation strongly oppose the FY2026 federal tax and spending bill recently passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, citing serious threats to Medicaid, food assistance and clean energy investments that are vital to the well-being and sovereignty of tribal communities.
Known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” the legislation proposes over $700 billion in Medicaid cuts, $267 billion in SNAP reductions and the elimination of key clean energy tax credits. Fort Peck leaders warn that these provisions will have devastating consequences for tribal citizens.
“This bill is not just a budget - it’s a direct assault on tribal health systems, food security and our right to build sustainable energy solutions for our people,” said Chairman Justin Gray Hawk Sr.
The Thundering Buffalo Wellness Center is a $23 million community facility that offers healthcare, fitness, childcare, and cultural education. The bill’s repeal of clean energy incentives puts the financial future of this facilityand Fort Peck’s broader energy sovereignty-at risk.
Additionally, the bill’s Medicaid provisions would destabilize tribal clinics and reduce healthcare access for over 40% of tribal citizens. New SNAP work requirements could leave many Native elders, single parents and underemployed individuals without food assistance.
In response, the Tribal Executive Board passed a resolution opposing the legislation and transmitted a formal letter to Montana’s Congressional Delegation urging them to reject the bill.
