CHIEF BARNES RESPONDS TO OMB'S MEMO ON FEDERAL FUNDING FREEZE

Jan 28, 2025

CHIEF BARNES RESPONDS TO OMB’S MEMO ON FEDERAL FUNDING FREEZE

On Monday, the acting director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a memorandum for heads of executive departments and federal agencies requiring agencies to “complete a comprehensive analysis of all of their [f]ederal financial assistance programs to identify programs, projects, and activities that may be implicated by any of the President’s executive orders. In the interim, to the extent permissible under applicable law, [f]ederal agencies must temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all [f]ederal financial assistance, and other relevant agency activities that may be implicated by the executive orders.”

Although a federal judge has temporarily halted the funding freeze until at least February 3, uncertainties still remain.

In response, Chief Benjamin Barnes assures Shawnee citizens that the tribal administration is working intently on gaining clarity as quickly as possible during this period:

“The Shawnee Tribe is aware of the temporary holds implemented by the Office of Management and Budget, and we are closely monitoring the transition progress to ensure the Tribe’s priorities are well-represented. Our team is actively working with federal partners and stakeholders to better understand how these holds may impact funding streams and programs. The federal government’s trust responsibility to tribal nations is a statutory obligation, and we will continue to advocate for the recognition of this unique relationship throughout the administration’s review process. The Shawnee Tribe remains focused on maintaining stability and continuity in our programs and services and will continue to prioritize the best interests of our citizens while navigating this transition with care and diligence.“

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