Summary of SRES 49 – National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week

Purpose and scope

SRES 49 is a Senate resolution that designates a specific week as National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week. Its primary purpose is ceremonial recognition and to encourage public observation and engagement to demonstrate support for Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs).

• Designation: The week beginning February 3, 2025, is designated as National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week.
• Encouragement: The resolution calls on the people of the United States and interested groups to observe the week with appropriate activities and programs that demonstrate support for Tribal Colleges and Universities.

Key provisions

• The resolution designates a specific week for national recognition of TCUs.
• It urges observance nationwide through activities and programs that show support for TCUs.
• There is no appropriation of funds or accompanying policy directive; the measure is symbolic and educational in nature.

Affected parties

• Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) and their communities are the primary focus of recognition.
• The general public, tribal nations, educational institutions, and organizations interested in Native American education are invited to participate in observances and programs.

Procedural history and timeline

• Introduced in the Senate: January 30, 2025.
• Consideration: Agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.
• Status: Passed/agreed to in the Senate by Unanimous Consent on January 30, 2025.
• Legislative text references: Consideration noted in Congressional Record (CR S525-526) and summary entry (CR S527).
• Companion legislation: HRES 97 in the House of Representatives (companion bill).

Sponsorship and support

• Primary sponsor: Martin T. Heinrich.
• Co-sponsors include a broad bipartisan slate:
  • Jerry Moran
  • Michael Bennet
  • John Hoeven
  • Deb Fischer
  • Ruben Gallego
  • Amy Klobuchar
  • Mark Kelly
  • Elizabeth A. Warren
  • James Lankford
  • Ron Johnson
  • Steve Daines
  • Richard J. Durbin
  • John Barrasso
  • Bernard Sanders
  • Kevin Cramer
  • Brian Schatz
  • Mike Rounds
  • Tammy Baldwin
  • Tim Sheehy
  • Mazie K. Hirono
  • Tina Smith
  • Additional cosponsors listed in the official record

Related legislation

• Companion House measure: HRES 97

Additional notes

• The resolution embodies a formal, symbolic acknowledgment of the importance of Tribal Colleges and Universities within the broader U.S. higher education landscape and Native American communities.
• No fiscal impact or regulatory changes are attached; the act serves to raise awareness and encourage participation in activities related to TCUs.