News Release

Secretary Sebelius Announces New Tribal Advisory Committee

Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee (STAC)

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today announced the establishment of a new Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee (STAC).  The STAC signals a new level of attention to Government-to-Government relationship between HHS and Indian Tribal Governments.

“The establishment of a tribal advisory committee at the Secretarial level will create a coordinated, department-wide strategy to incorporate tribal guidance on HHS priorities, policies and budget, improve the Government-to-Government relationship, and mechanisms for continuous improvement with our partnership with Indian Tribes,” said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.  “We are committed to continually improving our relationship with Indian Country and building healthier communities.”

The STAC’s primary purpose is to seek consensus, exchange views, share information, provide advice and recommendations; or facilitate any other interaction related to intergovernmental responsibilities or administration of HHS programs, including those that arise explicitly or implicitly under statute, regulation or Executive Order.  The first meeting of the STAC is expected to commence in December 2010.

Nominations are currently being sought for one primary representative from each of the twelve areas of the Indian health Service (IHS), as well as five at-large national representatives.  All representatives must either be elected or appointed Tribal officials, acting in their official capacity as the elected officials of their Tribe, or be designated by an elected Tribal official with authority to act on behalf of the Tribal official.. Nominations should be submitted no later than Friday, October 29, 2010 to:

Paul Dioguardi, Director
Office of Intergovernmental Affairs
US Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Ave SW Room 630-F
Washington, DC  20201
Fax:  (202) 205-2727
Email:  HHSIGA@hhs.gov

To learn more about the Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee (STAC) and to read the STAC charter visit http://www.hhs.gov/intergovernmental/tribal/

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Last revised: May 7, 2011