The House Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) Appropriations Subcommittee recently released legislation for Fiscal Year 2027 which proposes increased funding for HUD Tribal programs, including an increase of $46 million or 4 percent over the FY 2026 enacted level for the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG).

The FY2027 House proposal reflects continued bipartisan support for Tribal housing and community development investments while prioritizing formula funding stability, Tribal veteran housing assistance, and infrastructure-related community development programs.

At the same time, regrettably the proposal reduces funding for IHBG Competitive Grants and Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grants, while maintaining historically strong overall Tribal housing funding levels.

KEY PROPOSED FUNDING LEVELS

• $1.157 billion for IHBG Formula Grants — an increase of $46 million over FY2026
• $125 million for IHBG Competitive Grants — a decrease of $25 million
• $100 million for the ICDBG Program — an increase of $25 million
• $10 million for Tribal HUD-VASH as a dedicated line item
• $7 million for Training and Technical Assistance
• $1 million for Title VI Loan Guarantee subsidy authority
• $60 million in Title VI guarantee authority — an increase of $10 million
• $1 million for Section 184 credit subsidy
• $1.8 billion in Section 184 loan guarantee authority
• $15 million for the Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grant Program

“NAIHC appreciates the continued bipartisan recognition from Congress that Tribal housing investments are foundational to the health, stability, and economic future of Native communities. These investments help address severe housing shortages, overcrowding, infrastructure gaps, and barriers to homeownership while strengthening self-determination and economic opportunity across Indian Country.”

— Rudy Soto, Executive Director, National American Indian Housing Council

NAIHC will continue engaging with congressional leaders, Tribal Nations, housing practitioners, and federal housing partners throughout the appropriations process while simultaneously advocating for passage of bipartisan NAHASDA modernization legislation in the 119th Congress.

MEDIA CONTACT
National American Indian Housing Council – press@naihc.net
Website: www.naihc.net

In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) — a major milestone for Indian Country housing has been achieved.

The Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act of 2025 has officially been signed into law by Donald Trump on May 4, 2026, marking a long-overdue breakthrough in expanding access to homeownership opportunities for Native families living on Tribal trust land.

This bipartisan legislation, led by Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), John Thune (R-SD), and Mike Rounds (R-SD), passed overwhelmingly in both the House and Senate and delivers meaningful reform to one of the most persistent barriers to homeownership in Indian Country.

What This Means

For decades, Tribal members seeking to secure a mortgage on trust land have faced lengthy and unpredictable delays through the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). This new law changes that by:

Establishing clear, enforceable timelines for BIA mortgage reviews
Improving coordination and communication between Tribes, lenders, and federal agencies
Creating a realty ombudsman within BIA to support transparency and accountability

These reforms will help towards unlocking homeownership opportunities for Native families and veterans—while strengthening economic mobility across Tribal communities.

A Special Recognition

NAIHC would like to give a special and heartfelt shoutout to Sharon Vogel, Chair of the South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition and Executive Director of the Cheyenne River Housing Authority.

Sharon’s leadership, persistence, and unwavering advocacy were instrumental in advancing this legislation across the finish line.
We also extend our deep appreciation to all Tribal leaders, housing professionals, policymakers, and partners who contributed to this effort over many years.

Why It Matters

Homeownership is a cornerstone of strong families and thriving communities. By cutting through bureaucratic delays and modernizing outdated processes, this law represents a meaningful step forward in addressing housing disparities in Indian Country.

At NAIHC, we deeply appreciate the growing attention and commitment from Congress to tackle the housing challenges facing tribal nations. By removing unnecessary bureaucratic delays, this bill helps unlock opportunity for Native families, strengthens pathways to homeownership, and supports economic mobility in our communities. We look forward to continued collaboration to build on this momentum and ensure tribal housing is fully included in the broader national housing agenda.

Looking Ahead

While this is a significant victory, there is more work to be done. NAIHC will continue to build on this momentum—working with Congress, federal partners, and Tribal communities to advance comprehensive housing solutions, including the modernization of NAHASDA.

Together, we are creating a stronger foundation for future generations.

Thank you for your continued leadership and partnership.

Rudy Soto
Executive Director
National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC)

WASHINGTON, DC – The National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) is actively monitoring federal budget developments that have significant implications for Tribal housing programs nationwide.

This past week, NAIHC attended key hearings before the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, where Scott Turner, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), testified on the White House’s proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget.

Proposed Cuts Raise Concern

The President’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 budget proposal includes steep reductions to Indian Housing programs. The request includes:

$872 million for the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) out of $887 million total funding for Native American Programs, which represents a ~36% decrease from the FY26 enacted level of $1.355 billion

The Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) – Imminent Threat (IT) is funded at $5 million in FY27, compared to a broader ICDBG program in FY26 representing a substantial reduction in overall ICDBG funding scope and likely a majority cut to the program.

$10 million for Tribal HUD-VASH, which appears to be roughly consistent with prior targeted funding levels.

The Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grant (NHHBG) is funded at $22.3 million in FY26 and is eliminated entirely in FY27.

Finally, the Title VI Loan Guarantee program, which received approximately $1 million in credit subsidy in FY26, receives no new subsidy funding in FY27, representing a 100% reduction in new credit subsidy authority, though limited activity may continue using carryover funds.

Overall, the FY27 request reflects a significant contraction in Native housing funding, driven primarily by a roughly one-third reduction to IHBG and full elimination of Native Hawaiian housing funding.

Strong Response from Congress

Despite the proposed cuts, important news emerged during the hearings—particularly in the House Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) Subcommittee.

Tom Cole, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, made clear in his exchange with Secretary Turner that cuts to Indian Housing programs will not happen.

Chairman Cole’s remarks send a powerful bipartisan signal that Congress—especially appropriators—recognize the importance of maintaining (at minimum) current funding levels for Tribal housing.

NAIHC Advocacy in Action

NAIHC’s presence at these hearings underscores our commitment to ensuring that Tribal housing voices are heard at the highest levels of government. We continue to:
Advocate for robust and sustained funding for IHBG and related housing programs
Work closely with Congressional champions to protect Tribal housing programs
Push for NAHASDA reauthorization and modernization to ensure long-term stability and flexibility

What This Means for You

While the Administration’s proposed budget is concerning, Congress holds the power of the purse—and early signals indicate strong support for protecting Tribal housing funding.

However, this is not the time to be complacent. NAIHC encourages all Tribal leaders, housing professionals, and partners to remain engaged and ready to advocate as the appropriations process unfolds.

Stay Engaged

We will continue to provide updates as Congress advances FY2027 funding decisions.

Together, we must ensure that Tribal Nations are not left behind in federal housing investments.

Oglala Lakota Housing Authority | RFP In-House Legal Counsel Services 26, 27, 28

Oglala Lakota Housing Authority (“OLHA”), a Tribally Designated Housing Entity (TDHE), is requesting proposals from qualified Attorney or Law Firms for legal counsel services relating to CY2026, CY2027, and CY2028.

Scope of Work
Legal Counsel shall be retained for the purpose of providing legal counsel services for OLHA Planning and Administration, Maintenance, Development, Construction, Housing Services, OLHA – TDHE & LIHTC projects in addition to other projects assigned and related to OLHA grants and account management.

Submission Information
Firms requesting additional information or the proposal process from OLHA may call (605) 867-6370, or e-mail Noah Holder at noah.holder@oslh.org.

Firms/attorney wishing to submit proposals may submit their request to OLHA by mail to Oglala Lakota Housing Authority, Attn: Carrie Rowland, CEO, P.O. Bo 603, East Hwy. 18, Pine Ridge, South Dakota 57770

All proposals must be received no later than Friday at 4:30 pm Mountain Time, March 27, 2026. Proposals shall be submitted in triplicate in a sealed envelope clearly marked “In-House Legal Counsel Services 26, 27, 28.” OLHA reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive any or all deficiencies.

Training: Resiliency – Best Practice Toolkit

Date/Time: January 7-8, 2026
Time: 8:30 am – 5 pm MST
Location: WeKoPa Casino, Fort McDowell, AZ 85264

Description: This in-person training will provide Tribal Housing leadership and Tribal leaders with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to develop sustainable housing initiatives. Participants will explore funding opportunities, resilient infrastructure, and long-term strategies to strengthen Tribal Housing programs.
Register here: https://cvent.me/w7la29

Training: Property Maintenance Management
Date/Time: January 13-15, 2026
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm CST

Location: SPONAP Office, 301 NW 6th Street Suite 200, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Description: The Property Maintenance Management for Tribal Housing training is a 3-day, hands-on program aligned with NAHASDA and HUD guidelines that helps tribal housing staff and property managers develop effective maintenance policies for HUD-assisted properties. Participants learn strategies for preventive and routine maintenance, sustainability, budgeting, staffing, procurement, work order systems, tenant relations, and workplace safety, while preparing for certifications like NCHM’s Certified Manager of Maintenance (CMM) to support long-term housing viability.

Register here: https://cvent.me/XyarR9

Training: Self-Sufficiency
Date/Time: January 13-14, 2026
Time: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm PST

Location: Muckleshoot Casino Resort 2402 Auburn Way S, Auburn, WA 98002
Description: This two-day course focuses on how Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) can use NAHASDA funds to support residents’ efforts to become self-sufficient. Participants will explore what self-sufficiency means, what self-sufficiency could look like for residents and their TDHEs, eligible activities under NAHASDA, asset-building and workforce development strategies to promote self-sufficiency, and the role of community partnerships.

Register here: https://cvent.me/aaDQYy

Instructors: Anna Lawrence & Sonya Samuels-Allen

Date/Time: July 7, 2025 – July 11, 2025, 8:30 am PT – 4:45 pm PT

Description: The Tribal HUD VASH Grant Renewal, designed to help you understand the renewal application process. This engaging training will provide Tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) with the knowledge needed to navigate the annual renewal application and adapt to changes in the grant funding process. You will also learn how to effectively track Tribal HUD VASH funds using the Leasing Performance Report and how to calculate VASH-RAP amounts for next year’s funding. This training is a valuable opportunity to access essential tools and best practices for successful grant renewal application submissions and to enhance your skills in managing the Tribal HUD VASH Program.

Instructor: Katie Symons, Brigid Korce, Zoe LeBeau, Robin Thorne, Leo Hirsch

Location: Denver ONAP Office (1670 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202)

Description: This two-day training will teach about how to effectively manage the Tribal HUD-VASH program, which provides rental assistance and supportive services to Native American Veterans. This training will cover program requirements, best practices, U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) collaboration, policy development, and compliance essentials to ensure successful implementation.
Participants will:
Understand program requirements and administration
Learn best practices from across the U.S.
Refine policies and procedures
The VA’s role in case management
Master reporting and compliance

Instructor: Jason Adams & Dustin Baird

Location: Virtual via zoom

Description: This training program for Tribal Housing professionals focuses on developing resilience in housing operations. Participants will gain tools in culturally relevant housing strategies, risk assessment, sustainable building practices, funding navigation, and leadership skills. The training aims to foster resilient communities, economic growth, and cultural preservation.

Instructor: Jason Adams & Dustin Baird

Location: Virtual via zoom

Description: This training program for Tribal Housing professionals focuses on developing resilience in housing operations. Participants will gain tools in culturally relevant housing strategies, risk assessment, sustainable building practices, funding navigation, and leadership skills. The training aims to foster resilient communities, economic growth, and cultural preservation.

The two-day virtual IHP/APR course will equip participants with a comprehensive overview of the statutory and regulatory requirements involved in developing and submitting Indian Housing Plans and Annual Performance Reports. The course will provide an in-depth analysis of the eligible activities permitted under NAHASDA, as well as how a TDHE should plan for and gather data to be included in their IHPs. Participants will also gain familiarity with the HUD IHP/APR forms and learn how to complete and submit them through EPIC or GEMS. This course is highly interactive, and participants will have time to ask questions and complete easy quizzes and exercises.

This course if offered free of charge to tribal housing professionals through a funding agreement between the NAIHC and the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development’s Office of Native American Programs.

The 2-day virtual IHP/APR course will provide participants with a basic summary of the statutory and regulatory requirements of developing and submitting Indian Housing Plans and Annual Performance Reports.The course will include an in-depth review of the eligible activities allowed under NAHASDA along with a how a TDHE should plan for and gather the data to be included in their IHPs.Participants will also become familiar with the HUD IHP/APR forms and how to complete and submit the forms through EPIC or GEMS. The course will be very interactive with the participants being able to ask questions and completing easy quizzes and exercises.

This training is being offered to aid participants who serve as “Housing Board of Commissioners” understand the background & history of NAHASDA “The Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act”, To help develop their knowledge of Federal Rules and Regulations that must be adhered to when accepting funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Indian Housing Block Grant Program (IHBG).

This training will explain how to Understand the NAHASDA Statute, the Code of Federal Regulations – Title 24 Part 1000- Native American Housing Activities, Part 200 – Uniform Administrative Requirements and HUD Program Guidances and PIH Notices, and how these required components fit together in order to build your NAHASDA compliant Housing Program.

Training Materials

Access by using Google Chrome browser

This training is being offered to aid participants who serve as “Housing Board of Commissioners” understand the background & history of NAHASDA “The Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act”, To help develop their knowledge of Federal Rules and Regulations that must be adhered to when accepting funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Indian Housing Block Grant Program (IHBG). 

This training will explain how to Understand the NAHASDA Statute, the Code of Federal Regulations – Title 24 Part 1000- Native American Housing Activities,  Part 200 – Uniform Administrative Requirements and HUD Program Guidances and PIH Notices, and how these required components fit together in order to build your NAHASDA compliant Housing Program.

Training Materials

Access by using Google Chrome browser

The Renewal training session will provide renewal applicants with an in-depth analysis of the FY 2022 Renewal Notice and technical assistance in understanding the components of this application. Trainers will also share examples of the Lease Performance Report completion, how funding is determined and how to address deficiencies in the application.

Training Materials

Use Google Chrome for best results

The Renewal training session will provide renewal applicants with an in-depth analysis of the FY 2022 Renewal Notice and technical assistance in understanding the components of this application. Trainers will also share examples of the Lease Performance Report completion, how funding is determined and how to address deficiencies in the application.

Training Materials

Use Google Chrome for best results

The 2-day virtual IHP/APR course will provide participants with a basic summary of the statutory and regulatory requirements of developing and submitting Indian Housing Plans and Annual Performance Reports.The course will include an in-depth review of the eligible activities allowed under NAHASDA along with a how a TDHE should plan for and gather the data to be included in their IHPs.Participants will also become familiar with the HUD IHP/APR forms and how to complete and submit the forms through EPIC or GEMS. The course will be very interactive with the participants being able to ask questions and completing easy quizzes and exercises.

Training Materials

Access by using Google Chrome web browser

Self-Monitoring for Housing is designed to assist housing departments and housing authorities in performing the required self-monitoring under NAHASDA. The course includes a basic overview of the requirements and in depth discussion of each self-monitoring questionnaire issued by ONAP.

Training Materials

Access using Google Chrome browser

Conveyance training is to assist Housing Authorities in completing the proper steps to convey units as they are paid off. The class will help staff understand their roles and responsibilities in transferring the unit as well as helping the homeowners understand their new responsibilities.