1. POLICY:
Highlights from the Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee’s (TTAC) First Public Meeting of 2026
The Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee (TTAC) convened its first public meeting of 2026 at the U.S. Department of the Treasury in Washington, D.C.
The TTAC public meeting primarily focused on implementing the finalized regulations concerning General Welfare Exclusion (GWE) and the tax treatment of Wholly-owned Tribally Chartered Corporate entities, as well as outlining next steps for the education and training requirement for Internal Revenue Service (IRS) field agents. The discussion also emphasized strengthening ongoing collaboration between the TTAC, the Treasury, and the IRS to better support Tribal nations and economic development. Key policy priorities discussed included the tax treatment of partially owned Tribally chartered corporate entities, expanding access to tax-exempt bond financing for Tribal nations, achieving excise tax exemption parity, and ensuring that Tribal general welfare benefits are excluded from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligibility determinations.
2. MORE POLICY:
Overview on Tribal Programs in the President’s FY2027 Budget
The White House released its FY 2027 budget request earlier this month, outlining the Administration’s annual spending priorities and policy goals. The proposal requests $2.2 trillion for discretionary programs, with a sharp shift toward defense and away from domestic spending.
For non-defense agencies, including most programs serving Tribal Nations, such as those administered by the Department of the Interior and the Indian Health Service, the budget proposes $660 billion, a 10% cut from current FY 2026 funding levels. These reductions, if enacted, could have significant consequences for federal programs that support Tribal communities.
To advance its defense priorities, the Administration is asking Congress to use the budget reconciliation process to authorize $350 billion of the President’s proposed $1.5 trillion in defense spending. Reconciliation is a legislative tool that allows certain budget-related bills to pass the Senate with a simple majority, bypassing the 60-vote threshold typically required.
3. FOR TRIBAL LEADERS:
Tribal Leadership Academy
The Tribal Leadership Academy (TLA) at Dartmouth College offers a one-week educational program for newly elected or appointed tribal leaders, featuring a curriculum tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of Indian Country. From July 27th – July 31st, Native leaders new to their roles in Indian Country, whether elected or appointed, will learn from our Faculty Presenters in a 25-member cohort, including speakers, NAFOA President and Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Rodney Butler, along with NAFOA’s Executive Director, Cory Blankenship (Eastern Band of Cherokee).
Topics include economic development, grant writing, health care delivery, and intergovernmental relations. The program is fully funded, with travel support available.
Applications due by May 31, 2026. Review of applications will begin June 1, 2026, and acceptances will be sent by June 15, 2026.
Source: Dartmouth College
4. WEBINAR:
Microgrids and Distribution Infrastructure
Thursday, May 14, from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM ET
Discover how microgrid projects are revolutionizing energy independence in three Tribal communities by showcasing advanced grid expansion and local power generation solutions that electrify essential buildings and significantly reduce costs. Learn how these initiatives are enhancing resource security and fostering economic growth for remote communities.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy
Register to Join on May 14th →
5. JOB OPPORTUNITY:
Policy Specialist, NAFOA
We’re seeking a full-time Policy Specialist to join our remote team. The position plays a crucial role in advancing Tribal economies and strengthening Tribal finance through policy research, analysis, and advocacy at the federal level. The Policy Specialist conducts comprehensive research on federal policies affecting Tribal economies, analyzes proposed legislation and regulations, and assesses their potential impact on Tribal governments and enterprises.
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to info@nafoa.org with the subject line “Policy Specialist Position.” Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
