The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency has launched a preliminary review into alleged financial irregularities with an Indian loan program, The Billings Gazette reports.

The FSA told the National Tribal Development Association, based in Montana, to stop working on the loan and credit outreach program. The agency says it is reviewing records to determine if it should proceed with a full investigation.

NTDA officials say they reported a problem with one employee who may have misused funds. The chief operating officer says the program is being punished prematurely. FSA told NTDA to return a $402,000 check.

Get the Story:
U.S. withdraws support for Indian ag loan program (The Billings Gazette 1/15)

Relevant Links:
National Tribal Development Association - http://www.indiancreditoutreach.com