09/17/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/17/2025 12:20
Today, Congressman John Moolenaar's legislation, the Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act, was passed by the House Committee on Education and Workforce. The legislation affirms the rights of Native American tribes to govern labor relations on their own lands. The bill intends to respect tribal sovereignty, ensuring that Native communities have the same self-determination enjoyed by state and local governments.
"The Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act is about fairness and respect. Tribal governments should have the same authority as every other level of government in America to make decisions for their people and their communities," said Congressman Moolenaar. "This legislation recognizes the sovereignty of tribes and ensures they have the ability to create policies that best serve their members. I am grateful for the support it received in the Education and Workforce Committee, and will continue my work to deliver this important protection for tribal communities."
The Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act has been a longstanding priority for Native American leaders, receiving support letters from 33 tribes across the country as it was considered by the Education and Workforce Committee. By placing tribes on equal footing with states and territories under the National Labor Relations Act, the bill strengthens tribal self-governance and reaffirms the federal government's commitment to honoring tribal sovereignty.