Delaware House advances bill to create first Commission on Indigenous Affairs
Proposed commission would advise state leaders on issues affecting Native communities and strengthen ties with sovereign nations
The Delaware House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 365, which would establish the state’s first Commission on Indigenous Affairs, according to Spotlight Delaware. The commission would advise lawmakers and Gov. Matt Meyer on issues affecting Native communities, including healthcare, social services, housing, employment and education. The nine-member commission would include representatives from the Lenape Tribe of Delaware and the Nanticoke Indian Tribe, along with Indigenous residents from any tribe or nation living in the state.
Members would be appointed by Meyer from candidates recommended by the Lenape and Nanticoke tribes, according to the Spotlight Delaware reporting. House Bill 365 would provide $20,000 annually for three fiscal years to support startup and programming costs. The measure now awaits consideration in the Senate after advancing from the House on a unanimous vote.
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