Rounds Wrong on Native American Priorities

Sioux Falls, SD (April 20, 2016)-

Democrats responded to Senator Mike Rounds’ comments about problems with IHS health care and legislation introduced aimed at repealing century old anti-Native American laws.

“The South Dakota Democratic Party supports every effort at reconciliation between Native Americans and the federal government. Hence, we support Senator Rounds’ efforts to repeal out-dated racist laws with the RESPECT Act. However, while these changes are necessary, they are not sufficient to address the material implications of centuries of historical racism and structural inequality Native American communities have experienced. Mike Rounds needs to back up his words with action. Otherwise, it’s a paper solution and just another hollow promise of respect never intended to be delivered,” said Suzanne Jones Pranger Executive Director of the South Dakota Democratic Party.

Speaking with WNAX Radio earlier last week, Rounds blamed IHS for wasting federal funding on things like Medicare administrative services.

“Mike Rounds criticizes IHS for bureaucratic waste but then doesn’t support Medicaid expansion which would streamline federal reimbursement resulting in better care, more access and cheaper delivery. If he’s serious about addressing the problem of delivering quality health care to Native American communities, he should immediately push for Medicaid expansion,” Jones Pranger said.

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