NDAA may grant Lumbee federal recognition
The House’s defense policy bill slated for a vote this week includes language to grant the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina full federal recognition, with the Senate potentially acting as soon as next week. Recognition would provide access to federal funding, the Indian Health Service and land‑into‑trust authority; President Trump championed the effort, Interior prepared a plan in April, and some tribes oppose using the NDAA as the vehicle while Lumbee leaders urge Congress to finalize their status.
📌 Key Facts
- House vote on NDAA expected this week; Senate could follow next week (Dec. 2025 timeline).
- Lumbee Tribe has nearly 60,000 members; 1956 law recognized but denied federal services.
- Trump issued an executive order directing Interior to produce a Lumbee recognition plan; Interior delivered in April and advised pursuing Congress.
- Opposition voiced by Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Chief Michell Hicks; support reiterated by Lumbee Chairman John Lowery.
📊 Relevant Data
In 2015–2019, the poverty rate among the Lumbee Tribe was 23.85%, higher than the national average.
In 2015–2019, the uninsured rate among the Lumbee Tribe was 13.46%.
Genetic testing of Lumbee individuals showed on average 96% African or European lineage, with the remaining 4% divided between East Asian and Native American.
In 2015–2019, the disability rate among the Lumbee Tribe was 16.52%, higher than the national average of 13.1%.