Senate panel vows speedy action on IHS nominee

Friday, February 8, 2008  

INDIANZ.COM LISTENING LOUNGE Senate Indian Affairs Committee confirmation on Robert McSwain to be director of the Indian Health Service. February 7, 2008. • Opening Statements • Jacquie Van Huss • Sen. Smith • Testimony | Q&A

Leaders of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee vowed quick action on the confirmation of Robert G. McSwain to be Director of the Indian Health Service.

Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-North Dakota), the chairman of the committee, and Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), the vice chair, said they supported McSwain. Both spoke of the need for a permanent IHS director at a hearing yesterday.

"Together, we have to figure out a way to make something good out of this health care system," Dorgan said.

Dorgan said the send the nomination will be sent to the Senate floor after McSwain responds to written questions. That will happen at the committee's next business meeting, he said.

McSwain, a member of the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians of California, has worked for the IHS for more than 20 years. If confirmed, he would serve a four-year term.

Hearing Notice:
HEARING on the nomination of Robert G. McSwain, to be Director of the Indian Health Service. (February 7, 2008)

Relevant Links:
Indian Health Service - http://www.ihs.gov
National Council of Urban Indian Health - http://www.ncuih.org
National Indian Health Board - http://www.nihb.org

FY2009 Budget Documents:
HHS In Brief | GPRA Performance | More IHS Documents

Relevant Links:
Indian Health Service - http://www.ihs.gov
National Council of Urban Indian Health - http://www.ncuih.org
National Indian Health Board - http://www.nihb.org

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