Congresswoman Hageman’s Bill to Extend Tribal Land Leases Passes the House

Washington, D.C. - The House of Representatives passed by unanimous consent bipartisan legislation by Congresswomen Harriet Hageman (R-WY) and Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM) to foster economic development in tribal communities. Until 1955, land transactions with tribes required Congressional authorization, but the Long-Term Leasing Act allows tribes to lease their lands for up to 25 years without Congressional approval. Today, lease periods of up to 99 years are often needed for commercial leases and certain financing contracts. This bill proactively extends to tribes the authority to lease trust lands for up to 99 years to meet modern business contracts and reduce Washington, D.C. bureaucracy that stands in the way of tribes making the best decisions for their communities.

"The advancement of this bipartisan legislation marks an important step toward unlocking greater economic opportunity in tribal communities," said Rep. Hageman. "Tribes know far better than federal bureaucrats what is best for their members and their economic future. By extending lease terms up to 99 years, we are restoring decision-making authority where it belongs and providing tribes the certainty they need to build lasting prosperity for their communities."

"Rep. Hageman's bill empowers tribes by providing greater flexibility over trust lands through long-term leasing authority. By authorizing leases of up to 99 years, this legislation gives tribes and lenders the long-term certainty needed to finance housing, commercial projects and critical infrastructure in Indian Country. Rep. Hageman's work strengthens tribal self-determination by placing development decisions in tribal hands," said Chairman Bruce Westerman.

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