State lawmakers investigates ways to improve tribal relations

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ A panel of state lawmakers is looking for ways to improve relations between the state and Oklahoma's American Indian tribes. <br/><br/>Representative Lisa Billy of Purcell says

Saturday, September 24th 2005, 11:51 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ A panel of state lawmakers is looking for ways to improve relations between the state and Oklahoma's American Indian tribes.

Representative Lisa Billy of Purcell says lawmakers often call on tribes to help build a new bridge or provide help for local schools. Billy says lawmakers want to show the positive economic impact tribes have on the state.

A hearing on Thursday featured a presentation by Brian Campbell of the Chickasaw Nation. Campbell gave the panel an overview of the tribe's many business ventures as well as its civic and charitable work.

Representative Susan Winchester of Chickasha says an American Indian Studies program at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma has attracted more than 200 American Indian students.