National Caucus of Native American State Legislators

Background

The National Caucus of Native American State Legislators (formerly the National Council of Native American Legislators) was initially formed in 1992 and met during National Conference of State Legislature (NCSL) meetings whenever possible.  The Caucus reconvened regular meetings during 2005 as part of the State-Tribal Relations Project, a partnership between NCSL and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI).  The Caucus receives support from NCSL project staff designed to promote a better understanding of state-tribal issues among policymakers and the public at large.    The goals of the Caucus include: Providing a forum for discussion and increased communication among Native American legislators; Increasing awareness of the diverse Native American cultures in the United States; Supporting the establishment and maintenance of state-tribal communications to encourage open dialogues, understanding and cooperation; and Acting as an advisory body for the National Conference of State Legislatures on issues affecting Native Americans. The caucus is currently comprised of approximately 80 members from 18 states.  Membership is open to all Native American, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian state legislators.  The Caucus holds an annual meeting once a year and also meets during the NCSL Legislative Summit.  Additionally, the policy committees meet throughout the year.  The Caucus also collaborates with the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators and the National Asian Pacific American Caucus of State Legislators on issues of common interest.