Please find the Survey results of the Stockbridge- Munsee American Rescue Plan
Background
Sent survey to all enrolled SMC members, we had 231 responses. The charts represent the aggregate of data from survey. The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in had been processed by the U.S. Department of Treasury and sent to the tribe.
Breakdown of the $20 billion allocated to Indian Country
• $1 billion evenly split amongst all Federally Recognized Tribes
• 65% of remaining $19 billion allocated to tribes based on enrollment
• 35% of remaining $19 billion allocated to tribes based on tribal employment level as of 2019
According to the Department of Treasury, this funding is meant to provide a substantial infusion of resources to help turn the tide on the pandemic, address its economic fallout, and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable recovery. These funds will:
• Support urgent COVID-19 response efforts to continue to decrease spread of COVID-19 and bring the pandemic under control
• Replace lost revenue for Tribal governments to strengthen support for vital public services and help retain jobs
• Support immediate stabilization for households and businesses in Indian Country
• Address systemic public health and economic challenges that have contributed to the unequal impact of the pandemic on Tribal communities.
• Allow development of new and improvement of existing water, wastewater, and broadband infrastructure.
The interim Final Rule allows ARPA funds to be used for costs incurred from March 21, 2021 through December 31, 2024. This will allow the tribe to develop strategies to meet both short term and long-term needs.
In addition to this funding, Tribal administrators will continue to work to secure program specific funding from federal and state agencies that are also receiving ARPA funds. There are a number of Tribal specific provisions in the Act that will provide nearly $11 billion in additional funding to Indian Country, beyond the $20 billion allocated directly to Tribal Governments. These program specific areas include Housing, Child Development, Health & Wellness, Education and more.
Initial planning and strategy regarding the use of these funds has been under way and several priority areas have been identified, including: direct and immediate assistance to tribal members, infrastructure projects and addressing public health needs.
The Tribal Council would like to thank all tribal citizens for their patience as we work to build a strategic plan to use these funds in accordance with federal requirements and guidelines. This historic investment in our community represents a once in a lifetime opportunity and deserves an appropriate amount of time and consideration to ensure we are meeting the needs of our populations as well as creating long lasting impacts for future generations. Quarterly Financial updates will be provided to membership of expenses incurred under ARPA.
