New laws aim to strengthen Native education and language revitalization

Two new laws in Montana are designed to enhance Native American education and language preservation, according to reporting by Montana Free Press. Sponsored by state Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, the laws improve financial accountability in the Indian Education For All (IEFA) program and expand the role of tribal governments in language revitalization efforts. Senate Bill 181 mandates transparency in how school districts use IEFA funds, while Senate Bill 182 offers more flexibility in partnerships for the Montana Indian Language Preservation program. Both laws aim to support Native communities and ensure proper use of state resources, Montana Free Press reported.