Governor Schweitzer Releases 2009 Montana Tribal Relations Report

Governor Brian Schweitzer today released the 2009 Tribal Relations Report http://www.tribalnations.mt.gov highlighting the major accomplishments of the State of Montana and Tribal Nations working together during the past year. The full text of the report is available online, at http://tribalnations.mt.gov.

“This report embodies the State of Montana’s commitment to strong, long-term state-tribal relationships,” Governor Schweitzer said. “We look forward to our continued work ahead in forging more agreements and strengthening government-to-government relationships”.

There were more than 650 cooperative agreements, trainings, projects and collaborative efforts in effect between state government and the eight tribal governments in Montana during fiscal year 2009, covering every aspect of governmental operations, including economic development; the delivery of human services; environmental stewardship; cooperation on finance and justice issues; and education. Among the many achievements highlighted in the annual report are a number of important bills supported by the tribes, passed by the 2009 Legislature and signed by the Governor.

“The report is reflective of this new era in which the state and tribes are working together as partners and allies,” State Director of Indian Affairs Jennifer Perez Cole said. “The progress made toward strengthening state-tribal relations is something that we can all be proud of.”

This year’s report, a result of a 2003 state law sponsored by Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, includes artwork by featured artist Vernon The Boy, a Gros Ventre tribal member who lives in Box Elder, Montana.