Stronger Engagement for Indian Health Needs Act of 2026

This bill would change the title of the head of the Indian Health Service from Director to Assistant Secretary for Indian Health within the Department of Health and Human Services. The Assistant Secretary would report directly to the Secretary of Health and Human Services. With the Secretary's approval, the Assistant Secretary could appoint a Deputy Assistant Secretary and hire staff, including attorneys. The position's pay would move from federal Executive Schedule level V to level IV, and the salary would be paid from the Indian Health Services account. Existing references to the Director in federal laws and rules would be treated as references to the Assistant Secretary.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Catherine Cortez Masto Democrat sponsor
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