Senator Tim Johnson Chairs Hearing on Job Creation in Native Communities

Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Johnson (D-SD) held a hearing on November 10, 2011, to discuss the opportunities and challenges faced by Native American communities around the country.

The Committee discussed obstacles holding back job creation such as lack of access to capital, as well as work being done to address the problem. While progress has been made, many Native communities continue to face significant challenges, including staggering unemployment rates, inadequate health care, high crime rates, and educational inequalities.

"Fostering small business growth is a vital step toward increasing employment opportunities and improving local economies throughout the country. Small business growth in Indian Country is no exception," said Johnson. "Encouraging the startup and growth of Native American-owned businesses is an important priority to me as Chairman."

Johnson is a long-time advocate for policies to help improve the quality of life for American Indians, and is a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee.

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