Tribal Funding Reform (E.O. 14112)

Summary

Makes it easier for Tribal Nations to get and use federal money and support, respecting their right to govern themselves and make their own decisions.

What problem does this solve?

Tribal Nations often face complicated and burdensome processes to get federal funding, which drains their resources and limits their ability to serve their communities. This order directs federal agencies to simplify these processes, making funding more flexible and accessible to support Tribal independence.

What does this order do?

Identifies funding shortfalls

Requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and other advisors to figure out how much more funding is needed to meet the government's responsibilities to Tribal Nations.

Makes federal funding easier to get and use

Directs federal agencies to simplify application and reporting rules, remove unnecessary spending limits, and get rid of requirements that make it hard for tribes to get money.

Promotes partnerships with Tribal Nations

Encourages federal agencies to make agreements with tribes that let them manage federal programs and services themselves, such as through co-management and co-stewardship.

Respects Tribal data and knowledge

Allows Tribal Nations to use their own certified data for applications and reports, and stops requiring them to get permission from state or local governments to access federal funds.

Creates a central hub for funding information

Tasks the White House Council on Native American Affairs with creating a single, easy-to-find place that lists all federal funding sources available to Tribal Nations.

Requires proof of Tribal consent

Mandates that non-Tribal groups applying for federal money on behalf of a tribe must show proof that the Tribal Nation agrees to it.

Who does this affect?

Tribal Nations
Federal agencies that provide funding and support to tribes

What is the real world impact?

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Strengthens Tribal self-governance

Empowers Tribal Nations by giving them more flexibility and control over how they use federal funds to meet their communities' specific needs, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach.

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Improves government-to-government relationships

Aims to repair and strengthen the relationship between the U.S. government and Tribal Nations by honoring trust responsibilities and treating them as sovereign partners rather than just recipients of aid.

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Reduces bureaucratic inefficiency

Streamlines complex federal processes, which not only helps tribes but also makes government operations more efficient by cutting down on unnecessary paperwork and administrative hurdles.

When does this start?

This order became effective on December 6, 2023, and sets several deadlines for federal agencies to report on and reform their funding processes.

Guidance on funding needs

Within 240 days of the order (by August 2, 2024), the Office of Management and Budget must develop guidance for agencies to assess funding shortfalls for Tribal Nations.

Agency reports on funding needs

Within 540 days of the order (by May 30, 2025), federal agencies must submit reports identifying the funding needed to better support Tribal Nations.

Annual progress reports

Each year, agencies must report their progress to the OMB, which will then provide a summary to Tribal leaders at the annual White House Tribal Nations Summit.