Heitkamp says bill would preserve Native language

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) – U.S. Sen. Heidi Heitkamp says a recently introduced bill to help preserve Native American languages would benefit at least three tribes in North Dakota.

Many of the Indian reservations in the state have programs that help teach Native American children the language, history and culture of the tribe.

Heitkamp says the proposed Native Language Immersion Student Achievement Act could lead to grants for programs at the Standing Rock, Spirit Lake and Turtle Mountain reservations.

The Democratic senator says those reservations often face difficulties in hiring qualified staff and buying appropriate curriculum.

She says Native American languages could be lost for good if a concerted effort isn’t put in place to preserve them.