S.761 - Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.761, the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act of 2025, aims to establish a commission to investigate and document the history and long-term effects of Indian Boarding Schools and related policies in the United States. The bill outlines the commission's structure, including advisory committees and a subcommittee focused on survivors' experiences. The commission will develop recommendations for federal efforts and promote healing for survivors, their descendants, and communities.
Expected Effects
The Act would create a formal process for investigating the history of Indian Boarding Schools. This includes documenting the impacts on Native American communities and developing recommendations for addressing these historical injustices. The commission's findings and recommendations could lead to policy changes, increased awareness, and healing initiatives.
Potential Benefits
- Formal investigation and documentation of Indian Boarding School Policies.
- Development of recommendations for federal actions to address the impacts of these policies.
- Promotion of healing for survivors and their communities through trauma-informed care.
- Preservation of records and burial sites related to Indian Boarding Schools.
- Increased public awareness and education about this history.
Potential Disadvantages
- The act creates new government entities, which may lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies.
- The cost of operating the commission and its associated committees is significant ($90 million).
- The focus on historical injustices may create social divisions.
- The act does not create a private right of action, limiting legal recourse for individuals.
- The commission's recommendations may not be fully implemented or may face political opposition.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with Congress's legislative powers as defined in Article I, Section 8, particularly the power to regulate commerce with Indian tribes. The establishment of a commission to investigate historical policies and make recommendations falls within the scope of Congress's authority to address issues related to Native Americans. The First Amendment's guarantee of religious freedom is relevant, as the investigation may involve religious institutions that operated boarding schools. However, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).