In the 1800 s when Indians ceded their lands to the United States Government, they were placed on what is commonly known today as reservations. In return, they were promised federal funds to support themselves and their families. This funding was guaranteed in various treaties throughout the country. Therefore, federal funding is not welfare. It is payment for Indian lands.
Sovereign immunity is a fundamental right of every Indian nation.
It cannot and should not be stripped from tribes at the whim of the U.S. Congress. Stated simply, the supporters of this legislative rider want to do away with American Indian tribal sovereignty, even though it is a retained, inherent right of native tribes and peoples. We might speculate on how this issue ever came up. But one quick trip to most Indian reservations would smother the image instantly. Yes, some reservations have new schools, new clinics, and are sending their kids to college.