WASHINGTON — The Department of the Interior is seeking nominations of representatives to serve on Secretary of Interior Doug Burgum’s Tribal Advisory Committee, a key forum for strengthening collaboration between tribes and the federal government.

According to Interior Department information, the Tribal Advisory Committee was established to facilitate meaningful dialogue between Interior and tribes to address evolving issues related to the department’s programs, responsibilities and proposed policies.

“Engaging with the revitalized Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee is a vital opportunity to drive real change,” Burgum, said. “Their strategic leadership will sharpen the Trump administration’s focus and deliver powerful, concrete results for tribal communities.”

Interior will appoint to the advisory committee one member from each Bureau of Indian Affairs regions in addition to members who bring strong leadership and expertise related to the administrative priorities.

These priorities include:

– Advancing economic development in tribal communities.

– Enhancing tribal self-sufficiency through energy development.

– Strengthening public safety in tribal communities.

– Improving educational outcomes for our students.

– Streamlining and modernizing the probate process.

Nominees for regional positions must be elected tribal officials. Nominees for expert positions may be elected tribal officials or tribal employees authorized to act on behalf of an elected tribal official. All nominees should demonstrate experience or expertise relevant to federal-tribal relations and key policy areas as they relate to the current administration’s priorities.