Barriers to voting by American Indians and improving communication between Child Protective Services and tribes are topics the Montana Legislature's State-Tribal Relations Committee (STRC) will discuss in Billings on November 11 and 12.

The two studies are part of the work plan the committee approved in August. The STRC will also learn about tribal treaty rights and land status at its November meeting and tribal Uniform Commercial Codes.

While in Billings, the STRC will tour the Urban Indian Wellness and Health Center and observe Judge Rod Souza's courtroom during child protective service hearings involving Indian children.

A full agenda is available on the committee's website. Public comment on all topics is encouraged. The meeting will be held at the Montana Board of Oil and Gas conference room located at 2535 St Johns Avenue in Billings. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. on November 11. Those unable to attend in person may submit written comments to committee staff.

Members of the STRC include Representatives Jade Bahr (D-Billings); Alan Doane (R-Bloomfield); Dale Mortensen (R-Billings); Vice Chair Rae Peppers (D-Lame Deer); Joe Read (R-Ronan); and Sharon Stewart-Peregoy (D-Crow Agency); as well as Senators Jen Gross (D-Billings); Dan Salomon (R-Ronan); Chair Jason Small (R-Busby); and Frank Smith (D-Poplar).

For more information on the committee’s activities and upcoming meetings, visit the committee’s website or contact Hope Stockwell, committee staff.

Committee Website: www.leg.mt.gov/tribal
Committee Staff: hstockwell@mt.gov or 406-444-9280