Making Federal Economic Development Programs Work in Indian Country.

The House Committee on Natural Resources GOP Subcommittee on Indian Insular Affairs held an oversight hearing titled "Making Federal Economic Development Programs Work in Indian Country" on February 4, 2026. The hearing examined the effectiveness of federal economic development programs in Indian Country, highlighting persistent barriers tribes face such as fragmented federal systems, duplicative applications, inconsistent standards, and prolonged approval timelines. Witnesses including tribal leaders and representatives from Native American finance and contractor associations testified about challenges in accessing capital, federal contracting, and the need for streamlined processes and better federal agency coordination. Discussions emphasized the importance of tribal self-determination, the role of federal contracting as an economic tool, and the impact of administrative burdens on smaller tribes. The hearing also addressed concerns about funding cuts, staffing shortages, and the rescission of programs like the Tribal Access to Capital Clearinghouse. Legislative recommendations included advancing the Tribal Tax and Investment Reform Act and reauthorizing the Office of Native American Affairs to better support tribal economic development.