Keywords: American Indian, housing, legislation, Native American, Congress, tribe
American Indians have greater authority to address housing issues on and off reservations with the reauthorization of the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA), the American Indian site Indianz.com reports.
The update now gives tribes more flexibility to address housing issues in the community. Tribal advocates say the bill gives real meaning to the words "self-determination" in NAHASDA, which was originally enacted in 1996. The reauthorization bill was signed into law on Oct. 14.
"Dilapidated houses and overcrowded living conditions lead to weak school performance, poor heath and contribute to a hopelessness that few Americans witness as part of their daily lives," said Marty Shuravloff, the chairman of the National American Indian Housing Council. "By reauthorizing NAHASDA, Congress has demonstrated incredible dedication to improve the dire housing conditions that too many Native Americans face."
"This bill is more than just a housing act--it will give tribes more authority over their own land and truly help build stronger communities in Indian Country," said Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.
Click here to read the full story on Indianz.com.
