Montana restores tribal relations manager position at state health department

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services has reinstated its tribal relations manager position after eliminating the role in 2023, according to the Montana Free Press.

Heidi DeRoche, formerly a programs officer within the department’s Office of American Indian Health, now serves in the role. Misty Kuhl, director of the governor’s Office of Indian Affairs, was quoted as telling legislators during a State-Tribal Relations Committee meeting that DeRoche will bring “a breath of fresh air” and help unify the office.

The position was previously cut, prompting criticism from tribal leaders who said it was essential to communication and consultation between the state and tribes. DeRoche said she has been in the role for two weeks and now reports directly to department Director Charlie Brereton, marking a structural change since the resignation of former Office of American Indian Health Director Stephanie Iron Shooter.