A measure that will extend a home loan program for Native veterans has been cleared by both chambers of Congress.

H.R.5153, the Native American Veterans Home Loan Act of 2004, was sponsored by Stephanie Herseth (D-South Dakota). It will extend the loan program for another three years until December 31, 2008.

The measure was included as part of the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004, which passed the Senate in October. The House passed the bill on Wednesday.

The Native Veterans Home Loan Program was created in 1993 but only about 50 out of 200,000 eligible Native veterans have qualified for loans.

Get the Story:
Herseth Passes Veterans' Legislation (The Native American Times 11/18)

Get the Bill:
Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004 (S.2486)

Relevant Links:
Native Veteran Home Loans - http://www.homeloans.va.gov/native.htm

Related Stories:
Jodi Rave: Native veterans denied home loans (11/11)