PHOENIX — Navajo Nation leaders are applauding the efforts of Arizona State Rep. David Cook which resulted in the exemption of Arizona tribe members from work requirements for Medicaid benefits.
“This is definitely a victory for all Arizona tribes, particularly for those who rely on these important benefits to support their families,” said Navajo Nation President Nez in a press release. “The Navajo Nation played a major role in advocating for this decision, which sets a precedence for all of Indian Country.”
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey signed into law on April 13 a bill, sponsored by Cook, which changed Arizona statute to ensure that work requirements imposed by the Trump administration would not apply to Arizona tribes.
The federal government is responsible for providing health care services to American Indians, as established by an amendment to the Social Security Act.
Officials with the Navajo Nation Department of Health and former chair of the Health, Education, and Human Services Committee, Jonathan Hale, were among others who provided testimony and support for the state law.
“When tribes work together, we can overcome many obstacles and create positive change for
our people,” said Vice President Myron Lizer. “The work requirements would have been harmful for
many Navajo families across the state.”
Cook, R-8th, said he is honored to be one of the voices for Native American tribes in
Arizona.
“I am proud and honored to have championed the tribal waiver bill that was truly needed for
Native Americans in Arizona, who have unique challenges in and around their areas, especially in rural Arizona – the solutions are extremely different than what is needed in urban and metropolitan areas,” stated Cook.
It was an important decision by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, to approve Arizona’s request to exempt Arizona tribes from work requirements on individuals that received Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, Nez said. The new law protects and upholds tribal sovereignty for all other tribes across the United States.