North Dakota tribes prepare for food and fuel shortages amid federal shutdown

The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, Spirit Lake Nation and Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa have enacted emergency plans to address disruptions to federal food and fuel programs during the ongoing government shutdown, according to the North Dakota Monitor.

The Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa announced more than $1 million in local aid, including $500,000 each for food vouchers and fuel assistance, as well as funds for senior meals, a community soup kitchen and student nutrition programs. Spirit Lake Nation and Standing Rock Sioux Tribe also declared emergencies.

Standing Rock Chair Steve Sitting Bear criticized the shutdown as a violation of federal treaty obligations. North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong said the state allocated $1.5 million to the Great Plains Food Bank and the Women, Infants and Children Program to support tribes through November.