WASHINGTON — A U.S. House subcommittee is set to debate federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe.

The House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian, Insular, and Alaska Native Affairs has scheduled a Tuesday hearing on Lumbee Recognition Act. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Robert Pittenger, would grant the Lumbee Tribe full federal recognition.

“This is the next step in bringing Lumbee recognition up for a vote,” Pittenger said. “The Lumbee Tribe has sought full federal recognition since 1888. We are working closely with the Lumbee Tribe and other leaders to ensure a strong showing next Tuesday.”

Congress recognized the Lumbee Tribe in 1956, but prevented the tribe from receiving federal benefits. As a result, the Lumbee Tribe is not eligible for vital economic development programs through the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and following Hurricane Matthew was unable to receive disaster relief in the manner normally available to other federally-recognized tribes.

Staff Report