Cherokee Nation braces for cuts from federal sequestration

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - Cherokee Nation is bracing for cuts if the federal sequestration goes into effect on March 1.

Officials estimate the sequestration will chop their funding by tens of thousands of dollars.

"We're talking essential government services to our citizens, such as food, healthcare, housing, childcare and education. Those services would be reduced at a dramatic level," said Lacey Horn, Cherokee Nation treasurer.

Hundreds of Cherokee citizens wouldn't be able to stock up on food without those federal dollars.

"Every little bit helps. And there are a lot of families out there, a lot of my family and relatives still use the program," said Jonathan Nofire.

Around 100 jobs are on the line. And health services, Cherokee Nation's largest program, would see nearly 53,000 fewer patient visits.

"It wouldn't be a good thing to cut it. It would just be sad for a bunch of families that do use this," said Clarissa Eagle.

Officials stress that services would be cut before jobs.