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.