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The National Caucus of Native American State Legislators (NCNASL) works to promote a better understanding of state-tribal issues among policymakers and the public at large. Caucus members meet annually.

Members hope to encourage a broad awareness of state-tribal issues across the country and raise the profile of tribal issues throughout the state legislative arena.

The effectiveness of the caucus, and the strength of individual Native American legislators, increases the ability of the state legislatures to more appropriately address tribal issues and develop public policy in cooperation with tribal governments.

With 89 members from 21 states, the National Caucus of Native American State Legislators:

  • Provides a forum for discussion among Native American legislators.
  • Works to increase awareness of diverse Native American cultures.
  • Supports state-tribal communications to encourage open dialogue, understanding and cooperation.
  • To provide research, training, and educational services to American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian state legislators.

NCNASL Leadership

Executive Committee Members

  • Chair: Sen. Benny Shendo, New Mexico
  • Vice Chair: Rep.Ruth Buffalo, North Dakota
  • Secretary: Rep. Ajay Pittman, Oklahoma
  • Treasurer: Rep. Jonathan Windy-Boy, Montana
  • Peace Keeper: Rep. Ken Luttrell, Oklahoma

Policy Committees

Economic Development and Telecommunications

  • Chair: Rep. Shawn Bordeaux, South Dakota
  • Vice Chair: Rep. Ken Lutrell, Oklahoma

This committee addresses all topics associated with economic development including financial partnerships, the Board of Business Advisors and corporate investments in Native communities.

Education

  • Chair: Sen. Mary Kunesh-Podein, Minnesota
  • Vice Chair: Sen. Sally Ann Gonzales, Arizona

The Education Committee covers issues such as early childhood education, the achievement gap, cultural competency and secondary education.

Energy, Natural Resources and Transportation

  • Chair: Sen. Jamescita Peshlakai, Arizona
  • Vice Chair: Rep. Lynn DeCoite, Hawaii

Members concentrate on the subjects of renewable and nuclear energy, water and climate change. They also attend to transportation and environmental issues.

Health and Human Services

  • Chair: Rep. Tiffany Zulkosky, Alaska
  • Vice Chair: Rep. Ajay Pittman, Oklahoma

In addition to general health, which includes wellness, traditional medical practices and mental health, members are responsible for human services and criminal justice issues.

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