The Indian Health Service is holding back a total of $12 million from tribes in Great Plains, Indian Country Today reports.

The IHS Great Plains Area Office has $6 million in its "residual" account plus $6 million in funds "unavailable" for distribution, ICT reported. Other areas only have $2 million to $3 million in their residual accounts.

An IHS employee said the residual account is used for duties performed by federal officials. But the Great Plains Tribal Chairmen's Association says it should be used to provide health care to Indian people. The tribes also want an accounting.

Get the Story:
While people suffer, IHS reserves funds (Indian Country Today 9/12)

Relevant Links:
Indian Health Service - http://www.ihs.gov

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