Senate renews Indian housing law

FROM THE ARCHIVE

Facebook Twitter Email
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2002

The Senate last week renewed an Indian housing act that gives tribes greater control over funding and resources.

The Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) of 2001 was approved by a unanimous consent measure late Friday. Sen. Pete Domenici (R-N.M.), a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, was one of 13 co-sponsors.

"I hope this legislation can be moved and enacted this year. It is important because it gives better focus to critical housing needs for American Indians, and makes it easier for tribes to access this public housing support from HUD," he said yesterday in a statement.

The law gives tribes greater flexibility to use housing grants. Domenici's office said there was a $1.2 billion need for housing in Indian Country.

In related housing news, Jemez Pueblo and Pojoaque Pueblo have been awarded grants from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. "These two pueblos will be able to use these funds in a way that best suits their people, highlighting the need for expansion of better and more affordable homes," Domenici said.

Jemez Pueblo was awarded a $716,714 grant under the NAHASDA program. The money can be used for several purposes, including housing services, construction and crime prevention.

Pojoaque Pueblo was awarded $550,000 under another HUD program. The grant is intended to promote housing and economic opportunities for low-income residents.

Get the Bill:
Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (S.1210)

Relevant Links:
NAHASDA, US Dept of Housing and Urban Development - http://www-domino.hud.gov/ihp/newhome.nsf
National Indian Housing Council - http://naihc.indian.com