Indian Health Service would gain authority to vaccinate and treat tribal community animals

What does this do?

HR 8473 would authorize the Indian Health Service to provide veterinary and animal health services to Native American tribes and tribal organizations. Covered services include animal vaccination, spaying and neutering, and disease outbreak tracking. The bill also directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture to study how oral rabies vaccines can be delivered to wild animals in Arctic parts of the United States.

Who does it affect?

The people most directly affected are Native American tribal members living in rural and remote areas, including Alaska, where veterinary care is limited and animal-borne disease risk is higher. The bill also formally adds the Indian Health Service to the federal government's public health emergency planning framework.

Why does it matter?

Wildlife such as foxes in remote Arctic regions can spread rabies to people, and traditional delivery methods are difficult to use there. The Indian Health Service would be required to report to Congress every two years on how the program is performing.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Funds animal vaccines in tribal areas
• Covers spay, neuter programs
• No dollar amount specified

Where does it stand?