The Council of the Cherokee Nation has approved a $3.65 billion budget for fiscal year 2026 after the comprehensive financial plan was proposed by Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. and Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner last month.
The FY26 budget prioritizes key tribal services including education, health, and public safety, while funding significant capital projects to benefit Cherokee citizens.
The newly approved budget allocates the largest shares of tribally funded services to critical areas, many of which Chief Hoskin highlighted in his recent State of the Nation address during the Cherokee National Holiday. Education will receive 21.5 percent, Public Health and Wellness will receive 16.8 percent, and Public Safety will receive 14 percent, reflecting the administration’s commitment to building healthier, safer, and more prosperous communities.
“In the year ahead there will be more health care and wellness programs for our Cherokee people, more opportunities for learning for our young ones and increased courts and public safety, among many other achievements,” Chief Hoskin said. “I’m proud of the FY26 budget and applaud the Council of the Cherokee Nation for approving this road map for the coming year. These priorities reflect what is important to the Cherokee people.”
This budget also earmarks substantial funding for major capital investments designed to expand infrastructure and services across the Cherokee Nation Reservation. These projects include $564.8 million for Health and Behavioral Health Centers, $61.9 million for the Tribal Courts and Justice Center, $34.9 million for Wellness Centers, and $19.2 million for Child Development and Head Start Centers.
“This budget is a testament to our enduring commitment to uplift every Cherokee citizen,” said Deputy Chief Warner. “These investments in our infrastructure, from healthcare to education, will create lasting positive change for generations to come. We are building a stronger, more resilient Nation for our children and grandchildren.”
The collaborative effort between the executive and legislative branches was essential to finalizing the budget.
“The Council is proud to approve this budget, which represents our shared vision for a thriving Cherokee Nation,” said Speaker of the Council Johnny Jack Kidwell. “The Council spent a great deal of time to carefully consider whether we are meeting the most pressing needs of our people and responsibly stewarding our resources for the future. This budget gives us a solid foundation for progress.”
Treasurer Janees Taylor highlighted the fiscal strength and strategic planning behind the budget.
“This budget is balanced, forward-thinking, and demonstrates the Cherokee Nation’s sound financial management,” said Treasurer Taylor. “It enables us to make historic investments in our people and communities while maintaining a secure and sustainable economic foundation for the years ahead.”
Chief Hoskin said he expects the budget to increase during the coming fiscal year as Council considers a number of Hoskin-Warner initiatives relating to health and wellness and historic preservation.
