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Education
Funding for Montana Indian education rejected


A bill to provide $6.1 million for Montana's Indian Education for All Act was killed on Tuesday when all Republicans and three Democrats voted against it.

The state constitution requires public schools to teach about Indian culture and history. But no money has ever been provided.

Gov. Brian Schweitzer (D) has earmarked $2 million over two years to carry out the mandate but Indian educators and Indian lawmakers say that isn't enough. But Republicans questioned whether providing more money was necessary.

Get the Story:
'Indian Education for All' funding bill falters (The Great Falls Tribune 3/30)
Bill to strengthen education about Indians dies (The Billings Gazette 3/30)

Relevant Links:
Montana Indian Education Association - http://www.mtiea.org
Montana Office of Public Instruction - http://www.opi.state.mt.us

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