Report Evaluates Tribal Monetary Impacts in Montana

The Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs today announced the release of Monetary Contributions of Reservations to the State of Montana, which quantifies a portion of the revenue Indian Tribes add to Montana’s economy. Utilizing 2003 figures, the study measures the level of monetary contributions derived from the seven Indian reservations and the Little Shell Chippewa Tribe to Montana’s general economy.

“The report indicates Tribes contribute over a billion dollars a year to the state’s economy,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “The majority of that money is being spent off the reservation in surrounding communities.”

The study was commissioned by Governor Schweitzer’s State Tribal Economic Development Commission – which includes representation from all eight Indian Nations in Montana – the Office of Indian Affairs, the Office of Economic Development and the Montana Department of Commerce.

Data gathered was limited to tribal, federal and state governmental entities and resources. Revenue generated from privately owned businesses operating on reservations was not included.

“This is a first step in evaluating the impact of the Tribes’ monetary contributions to the state Montana,” said Shawn Real Bird, Chair of the State Tribal Economic Development Commission. “In growing the state’s economy it is important we acknowledge the Tribes’ contributions.”

The report, Monetary Contributions of Reservations to the State of Montana, is available on the State Tribal Economic Development website of http://www.tribal.mt.gov.