LANSING, Mich., June 7, 2023 — The House of Representatives passed House Bill 4516 today. The bill explicitly allows federally recognized Indian tribes to receive funding to assist survivors of domestic and sexual violence. After the vote, state Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City), the bill’s sponsor, issued the following statement:
“The sovereign nation of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians is in my district, and it is my honor to help direct funding to help survivors of domestic and sexual violence get the support they need. In many cases, tribal shelters are the only option for Native and non-Native survivors alike who come seeking crucial support. With the prevalence of violence directed at American Indian women in particular, this funding is more vital than ever.”