This often means that tribal governments are focused on land and water rights, and battles over legal jurisdiction. Fowler, et al. They have also recognized that their efforts must be consistent and on-going, and that funding and enforcement are key issues. A major barrier to the continuation of these efforts involves the question of who is responsible for directing and funding such activities. Most tribes lack the financial resources to mount a systematic effort to build tribal disability legislation.
State governments have little responsibility and less authority on reservations.
While some foundations support tribal development, they tend to focus narrowly on special issues or support only a few tribes. Only the Federal government has the combination of authority, resources and responsibility. Unfortunately, no Federal agency has the duty to assist tribes in addressing this gap in law and policy. This situation must be clarified if American Indians with disabilities are to enjoy the same protections as their neighbors. This research is showing that, in a surprisingly short period of time, the use of the Tribal Disability Actualization Process can bring significant change that benefits the tribes that employ it.