Sec. 2. Findings
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/bill/114/hr/3252/ih/section-2A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
Congress finds that: The United States has a distinct legal, treaty, and trust obligation to provide for the education, healthcare, safety, social welfare, and other needs of Native children. Native children are the most at-risk population in the United States, confronting serious disparities in education, health, and safety, with 37 percent of Native children living in poverty. Teens who do not participate in those programs are nearly 3 times more likely to use marijuana or other drugs, and more likely to drink alcohol. 22.9 percent of Native children aged 12 and older report alcohol use, 16 percent report substance dependence or abuse, 35.8 percent report tobacco use, and 12.5 percent report illicit drug use.
Protective factors against youth suicide include opportunities to participate in and contribute to school and/or community projects/activities. Suicide is the second leading cause of death of Native youth aged 15 through 24 at a rate of 2.5 percent—this is twice the national rate of non-Native youth of the same age. Nationally, American Indian and Alaska Native students have the lowest college enrollment rates. At-risk youth who have a mentor are more likely to pursue higher education after high school in a four-year, two-year, or vocational program than their at-risk peers who do not have a mentor (45 percent compared to 29 percent).
Students who are engaged in extracurricular (afterschool and summer learning) activities have better attendance records, higher levels of academic achievement, and more interest in pursuing higher education after graduation.