Helping Our People Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Randall, Emily [D-WA-6]
- Committees
- Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 10, 2026
Bottom line
The bill clarifies the Puyallup Tribe's authority to manage its existing trust funds and ensures its continued eligibility for future federal programs.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Puyallup Tribe of Indians Settlement Act of 1989 to explicitly allow the Puyallup Tribe of Indians to withdraw funds from their Settlement Trust Fund. These withdrawals must adhere to the American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act of 1994 and be conducted under a management plan approved by the Secretary. Additionally, the bill includes a savings provision to ensure the 1989 Settlement Act does not prevent the U.S. government from engaging with the Tribe under future federal laws, treating them on the same basis as other federally recognized tribes.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill enhances tribal self-determination by providing the Puyallup Tribe with clear authority to manage its own financial assets, aligning with modern principles of tribal self-governance. They contend it removes ambiguity regarding the Tribe's access to its trust funds and ensures equitable treatment under future federal legislation.
Opponents contend
No specific organized opposition is typically raised against legislation that clarifies tribal authority over existing trust funds, especially when managed under established federal oversight frameworks. Potential concerns, if any, would likely focus on the specifics of the management plan rather than the principle of tribal withdrawal authority.
The bill is very short and clear, making it easily accessible for a quick read and understanding of its provisions.
Section 2(a)
Clarification of Trust Fund Withdrawal Authority
This section amends the original 1989 Puyallup Tribe of Indians Settlement Act to explicitly state that the Puyallup Tribe can withdraw money from its Settlement Trust Fund. These withdrawals must follow the rules set out in the American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act of 1994, and the Tribe must have a management plan approved by the Secretary of the Interior.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision empowers the Puyallup Tribe by granting them greater control over their own financial resources, fostering self-sufficiency and economic development. They highlight that the requirement for a Secretary-approved management plan ensures responsible stewardship of the funds.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against this provision, as it clarifies existing authority within a framework designed for tribal trust fund management and self-governance.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the principle of tribal self-determination with the federal government's trust responsibility, ensuring that withdrawals are conducted under an approved management plan to safeguard tribal assets.
Section 2(b)
Future Federal Engagement Savings Clause
This section adds a new provision to the 1989 Puyallup Tribe of Indians Settlement Act. It clarifies that nothing in that original Act should prevent the United States government from interacting with the Puyallup Tribe, on the same terms as other federally recognized Indian Tribes, under any new federal laws passed after this bill becomes law.