Promises Made, Promises Kept

Improving Tribal Probate Process

• The Department of the Interior launched the Electronic Probate System, a secure digital platform that modernizes probate cases for American Indian and Alaska Native families. The system streamlines the probate process, reduces delays and improves customer service to help families receive more timely support and access to trust assets. Interior Launches Electronic Probate System to Modernize Trust Estate Services for American Indian and Alaska Native Families

• More than $28 million has been distributed to tribal beneficiaries following the completion of probate cases at Fort Berthold Agency in North Dakota. The results reflect strengthened coordination across Interior to move probate cases forward more efficiently, reduce delays and ensure families receive the trust assets owed to them, reinforcing the federal trust responsibility to tribal citizens. Department of the Interior Probate Surge Returns $28 Million to Native Families

• The Department of the Interior distributed a record amount of probate funds to Native families, reflecting the administration’s commitment to honoring trust responsibilities and strengthening services to tribal nations. The distribution was supported by improvements in coordination and automation across Interior, advancing more timely, transparent and efficient probate processes for tribal beneficiaries. Department of the Interior Distributes Record $66 Million to Native Families in May

• The Department of the Interior and the Alaska Department of Health announced a new agreement to strengthen coordination and support timely, accurate probate services for Alaska Native communities. The partnership establishes clearer timelines and more efficient access to vital records, helping reduce the longstanding probate backlog so American Indian and Alaska Native families can receive the property that rightfully belongs to them. Interior Department, Alaska Department of Health Announce New Agreement to Enhance Bureau of Indian Affairs Probate Process

• Tribal communities stand to benefit from expanded efforts to reduce the probate backlog, strengthen public safety, advance tribal energy development and support economic growth. Collaboration between Indian Affairs, USDA and tribal partners also includes expanded bison restoration and food processing opportunities, modernization of probate systems, stronger protection of tribal data and continued support for tribal sovereignty and self-governance. Indian Affairs Leadership Engages USDA and Tribal Coalition on Shared Priorities

Expanding Public Safety

• A BIA-initiated investigation, Operation Black Book, successfully dismantled a cocaine distribution network impacting the Pine Ridge Reservation through coordinated efforts among tribal, federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The operation demonstrates the importance of law enforcement partnerships in disrupting drug trafficking organizations and protecting tribal communities. Cocaine Distribution Network Impacting Pine Ridge Reservation brought down by BIA-initiated investigation

• The Bureau of Indian Affairs Predatory Crimes Unit conducted a two-day operation with the Winnebago Tribal Police Department and multiple law enforcement partners, resulting in five arrests and the rescue of a victim of human trafficking and child exploitation. The operation strengthens investigations, protects vulnerable victims and supports safer tribal communities through coordinated enforcement. Indian Affairs new Predatory Crimes Unit announces five arrests on Winnebago Reservation

• The Department of the Interior launched a new task force to combat violent crime in Indian Country, expanding federal coordination and resources to strengthen public safety and address violent crime and drug trafficking. The effort builds on previous initiatives, including Operation Lady Justice, and reinforces the federal government’s trust responsibility to protect tribal communities. Interior Department Launches New Task Force to Combat Violent Crime in Indian Country

• The Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Hopi Tribe celebrated the opening of the new Hopi Adult Correctional Center, a modern facility designed to enhance public safety and rehabilitation. Funding for the project’s design phase was secured during the first Trump administration, supporting investment in modern correctional facilities that strengthen tribal justice and community well-being. Bureau of Indian Affairs, Hopi Tribe Celebrate Opening of New Hopi Adult Correctional Center

• The Bureau of Indian Affairs Drug Enforcement K-9 Unit seized more than $621,000 in fentanyl during a traffic stop in Arizona. The seizure highlights the role of coordinated drug enforcement efforts in disrupting illegal drug activity and protecting families and communities throughout Indian Country. BIA OJS K-9 Unit Seizes More Than $621,000 in Fentanyl During Arizona Traffic Stop

• The Bureau of Indian Affairs Predatory Crimes Unit announced an arrest connected to attempted crimes against children associated with the Wyandotte Nation Reservation. The investigation reflects efforts to strengthen public safety, protect vulnerable children and foster coordination among tribal, federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Bureau of Indian Affairs Predatory Crimes Unit Announces Arrest Connected to Wyandotte Nation Reservation

• The Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit, working with the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Department and other law enforcement partners, identified the remains of Molly Miller, a Chickasaw Nation citizen who disappeared in 2013, and Colt Haynes following a large-scale search in Love County, Oklahoma. The investigation demonstrates continued efforts to pursue answers for families of missing and murdered Indigenous people and strengthen coordinated law enforcement efforts in Indian Country. BIA MMU positively identifies missing Chickasaw Nation member

• A large-scale search in southern Oklahoma brought federal, tribal and state partners together to advance the investigation into the 2013 disappearance of Molly Miller and Colt Haynes. The operation covered more than 1,000 acres and resulted in the discovery of two sets of human remains, demonstrating continued efforts to pursue answers for Native families and strengthen coordinated law enforcement efforts in Indian Country. Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit Conducts Large-Scale Search in Oklahoma: Remains found

• The Bureau of Indian Affairs launched Operation Spirit Return, an initiative to help solve missing and unidentified person cases involving American Indians and Alaska Natives across the United States. The initiative supports efforts to bring answers to families and strengthen coordination around unresolved cases. BIA launches Operation Spirit Return to help solve Indian Country missing and unidentified person cases

• The Bureau of Indian Affairs partnered with the Department of Justice for Operation Not Forgotten to surge resources into Indian Country to investigate unresolved violent crimes. The effort expands investigative support and coordination to help advance cases and bring answers and accountability to Native families and communities. Justice Department to Surge Resources in Indian Country to Investigate Unresolved Violent Crimes

• More than a decade after Marie Walkingstick Pheasant was murdered on the Qualla Boundary, an interagency investigation led to a life sentence for her estranged husband. The case demonstrates the impact of sustained collaboration among tribal, federal and state law enforcement and continued efforts to bring justice to Native families affected by missing and murdered Indigenous people cases. Swain County Man Sentenced To Life In Prison For Cold Case Murder In Indian Country

Economic Development

• Indian Affairs has cut red tape and expedited the approval process for tribal broadband infrastructure projects as part of Secretary Doug Burgum’s commitment to streamlining support for tribal initiatives, from infrastructure to energy development. Interior cuts red tape, expedites broadband infrastructure development in tribal areas

• The Department of the Interior is investing up to $3 million through the Indian Business Incubators Program to help Native entrepreneurs start, grow and sustain successful businesses. The funding will expand access to mentorship, technical assistance, networking and investor connections, strengthening tribal economies, creating jobs and supporting long-term prosperity throughout Indian Country. Indian Affairs announces $3 million to support Native entrepreneurs

• Indian Affairs leadership met with tribal leaders from across Indian Country at the Reservation Economic Summit to discuss economic development, self-governance and sovereignty. The conversations focused on removing barriers, expanding tribal authority and supporting tribes as they advance priorities ranging from mineral and water development to federal recognition, cultural resource protection and economic growth. Indian Affairs engages tribal leaders at RES 2026 in Las Vegas

• The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs is offering $2.4 million in Tribal Tourism Grants to help tribes expand tourism and drive economic growth. The initiative supports locally driven development, empowers tribal communities to build on their unique assets and creates opportunities for job growth through enhanced tourism operations. Indian Affairs seeks applications for Tribal Tourism Grants

Education

• The Department of the Interior hosted the Forum on Native Languages and Education, bringing together tribal leaders, educators and students to share strategies for Native language revitalization. The administration has prioritized supporting Native language preservation, providing more than $12.5 million in federal funding to expand language programs and honor Native communities’ leadership in sustaining their languages and cultural identity. Department of the Interior hosts Forum on Native Languages and Education

• Haskell Indian Nations University and the Indian Health Service are partnering to build a new, state-of-the-art health care facility on Haskell’s campus in Lawrence, Kansas. The new clinic will expand access to culturally informed health care while giving Native students hands-on training opportunities and strengthening the pipeline of future health professionals serving Indian Country. Haskell Indian Nations University and Indian Health Service Sign Landmark Agreement to Expand Health and Educational Opportunities

• Native students at BIE-funded schools will have greater access to academic support, mentorship, leadership development and healthy lifestyle programs through a new partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America Native Services. The agreement will strengthen existing clubs and help establish new programs near BIE schools and dormitories, providing culturally relevant opportunities that support student achievement, wellness and personal growth. Bureau of Indian Education and Boys & Girls Clubs of America Native Services Announce Partnership to Support American Indian and Alaska Native Youth

• Native students at Bureau of Indian Education-funded schools will benefit from a new performance-driven plan focused on improving academic outcomes, strengthening Native language and culture and expanding student wellness and career opportunities. The plan sets measurable goals through 2030, including raising the high school graduation rate to 87%, while giving schools and tribal communities greater flexibility to shape education around local priorities and student needs. Interior Unveils Bureau of Indian Education Strategic Direction to Drive Student Success and Cultural Strength

• Tribal leaders will have a direct role in shaping how federal agencies coordinate Indian education programs through a new consultation involving the Departments of Education, the Interior and Labor. The collaboration aims to improve program delivery, strengthen accountability, reduce bureaucracy and expand education, career and workforce opportunities for Native students and adults, including the more than 90% of Native students who attend public schools. U.S. Departments of Education, Interior, and Labor Announce Tribal Consultation on Indian Education Partnership

• In response to President Trump’s Executive Order 14191, Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families, the Bureau of Indian Education is expanding educational opportunities while respecting tribal authority and strengthening local decision-making.

• The Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Wildland Fire Management and the Bureau of Indian Education are strengthening workforce development and preparing the next generation of wildland fire professionals through the Native Youth Firefighter Training Program. This school-to-career pathway equips high school and postsecondary students with essential firefighting skills through virtual training, mentorship and resources, preparing them for careers with tribal, federal and state fire programs. Department of the Interior Expands Training Pathway for Native Youth in Wildland Fire Careers

• Investments in higher education under the Trump administration have advanced greater student access, stronger local control and programs that prepare graduates to contribute to their communities and the national workforce.

• Workforce development is a core outcome of the Bureau of Indian Education’s mission, preparing Native students with the skills, credentials and experience needed to succeed in teaching, skilled trades, technology and leadership roles across Indian Country.

Expanding Energy Opportunities

• The Department of the Interior approved the first-ever tribal energy resource agreement, granting the Southern Ute Indian Tribe greater authority to manage energy development on its lands and reducing federal bureaucracy. The agreement advances tribal self-determination and economic growth while supporting national energy security and American energy dominance. Interior Enters into Nation’s First-Ever Tribal Energy Agreement

Tribal Family Services

• Indian Affairs provided $20 million in emergency funding to Alaska Native villages, including immediate relief for essential supplies and investments in infrastructure. The funding supports efforts to modernize rural infrastructure, strengthen supply chains and advance locally led projects that address urgent needs and support long-term solutions for Native communities. Indian Affairs delivers $20 million in emergency funding for Alaska Native villages

• The Department of the Interior awarded $2 million in Indian Child Welfare Act off-reservation grants to seven Native organizations, strengthening culturally appropriate services that help keep Native children connected to their families, communities and cultures while supporting family stability and tribal self-determination. Indian Affairs Awards $2 Million to Strengthen Indian Child Welfare Services

Enhancing Housing Opportunities

• The Department of the Interior and the Department of Housing and Urban Development signed an agreement to implement the Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act of 2025. The agreement advances efforts to improve housing affordability and expand homeownership opportunities for Native families by streamlining federal coordination, reducing barriers and supporting tribal sovereignty on trust lands. Interior, HUD sign agreement to advance tribal homeownership

Advancing Tribal Self-Governance and Self-Determination

• The Trump administration affirmed its commitment to tribal sovereignty by adding the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina to the official list of federally recognized tribes, acknowledging a long and well-documented history of tribal governance. This action reflects the federal government's responsibility to listen to tribes, honor commitments and support strong tribal governments. Lumbee Tribe Added to Official List of Federally Recognized Tribes

• Across the Gila River Indian Community and throughout Indian Country, tribal self-governance is delivering results. From a new tribally managed public safety facility to culturally grounded education and the 2026 Tribal Self-Governance Conference, tribes are using their authority to strengthen infrastructure, improve services, preserve culture and build stronger communities. Tribal self-determination highlighted during administration leadership visit to Arizona

• The Department of the Interior is seeking tribal nominations for the revitalized Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee, a key forum for strengthening government-to-government collaboration. The committee will provide strategic guidance to Secretary Doug Burgum on issues affecting Indian Country, including economic development, energy development, public safety, education and modernization of the probate process. Department of the Interior Seeks Nominations for Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee

Strengthening Tribal Sovereignty and Land

• The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service transferred 680 acres of land in Benson County, North Dakota, to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be held in trust for the Spirit Lake Nation following a decades-long effort. The returned land strengthens the tribe’s land base and sovereignty while creating opportunities for community development, including potential expansion of health care services for tribal citizens. Department of the Interior Announces Completed Land Transfer from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for Spirit Lake Nation

• Ten tribal communities will receive $6.3 million to strengthen water infrastructure and improve access to safe, reliable drinking water. The investments will support projects ranging from drinking water and wastewater systems to wells, water quality testing and drought mitigation, helping tribes protect vital water resources and build stronger, healthier communities. Reclamation announces $6.3 million in technical assistance to tribes

Trust Funds and Beneficiary Services

• The Bureau of Trust Funds Administration launched a research pilot to design a new digital payment solution aligned with President Trump’s Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments to and from America's Bank Account. Modernizing disbursement methods and reducing reliance on paper checks could improve service delivery for 1.9 million beneficiaries while addressing the needs of unbanked and underbanked communities.

Tribal Forestry Management

• The Department of the Interior extended the Indian Trust Asset Reform Act Demonstration Project for ten years, continuing efforts to empower tribes and reduce federal bureaucracy. The extension gives tribal communities greater authority to manage their forest resources and supports long-term planning and self-governance. Interior Extends Tribal Forestry Management Program