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Introduction Of The Hearth Act

Floor Speech

Date: May 20, 2009
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Indigenous Peoples Housing and Property

Mr. HEINRICH. I rise today to introduce the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act, or the HEARTH Act.

Homeownership is a fundamental element to the American dream, yet Native American homeownership rates are half that of the general population, and too often the Federal Government has been the stumbling block.

Purchasing a home is no easy process for any of us; but for many Native American families trying to buy a house on tribal land, they must also get lease approval from the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the land that the house sits on.

This process can take between 6 months and 2 years, resulting in an intolerable delay for finalizing a home sale. This bill would eliminate this requirement and allow tribal governments to approve trust land leases directly, giving more Native American families the chance to own their own home.

I urge your support.


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