Native American Legislative Focus

Established in 1963 as the first council of its type in the U.S., the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council (MIAC) is the official liaison between Tribal Nations in Minnesota and the state of Minnesota. MIAC is mandated to make recommendations on legislation that is important to tribal governments and American Indian people and improve services between the state and American Indian communities.

MIAC provides a forum for and advises state government on issues of concern to American Indian tribes and communities, develops and advocates for state legislation.

Native American Focused Legislation
MIAC tracked, coordinated, testified, or offered technical assistance to the following legislation.

Education
- Prohibition of American Indian Mascots in Public Schools (SF1404)
MIAC commends the enactment of legislation prohibiting the use of American Indian names, symbols, or images as mascots, nicknames, logos, letterheads, or team names in public schools. This law acknowledges the detrimental effects such representations have on the identity and dignity of Native students and communities.
- Authorization of Drumming and Cultural Practices in Schools (SF1405)
MIAC advocate for policies that permit and encourage the practice of drumming and other Indigenous cultural expressions within educational settings. Such practices are integral to the cultural identity and well-being of American Indian students and serve as vital tools for education and community
- Carry-Forward Funding for American Indian Parent Advisory Committees (AIPACs) (SF2285)
MIAC supports the provision allowing school districts and tribally controlled schools to carry forward up to 50% of unspent American Indian Education Aid funds to the following fiscal year. This flexibility ensures that resources are utilized effectively to support culturally relevant programs and initiatives for American Indian students.
- Enhanced Grant Accessibility for Tribal Schools (SF2255)
MIAC endorses efforts to streamline and expand grant opportunities for tribal schools, including those aimed at language revitalization and cultural education. Ensuring equitable access to funding empowers tribal schools to develop and sustain programs that reflect their unique cultural and educational priorities