Politics

Bill elevates Indian affairs position to Cabinet in Oklahoma





The Oklahoma House passed a bill to elevate the state's American Indian liaison position to the Cabinet.

Last year, the Legislature enacted HB2172, which abolished the Oklahoma Indian Affairs Commission. The law created the liaison position but it hasn't been filled amid concerns about blood quantum requirement.

House Bill 2563 was introduced to eliminate the requirement. It was amended on Tuesday to change the liaison to a Cabinet position.

The state Senate will consider the bill.

Get the Story:
Oklahoma House approves American Indian liaison measure (The Oklahoman 3/14)
Oklahoma House OKs measure to create secretary of Indian affairs post (The Tulsa World 3/14)

Related Stories:
Bill removes blood quantum requirement from state post (01/24)
Oklahoma governor fails to name new Native American liaison (12/02)
Bill for Indian affairs post in Oklahoma passes in nine days (5/23)
Oklahoma House puts an end to Indian Affairs Commission (5/19)

Join the Conversation