Lumbee Fairness Act

# Lumbee Fairness Act Summary **What the Bill Does** The Lumbee Fairness Act would grant federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, a Native American group that has sought this status for decades. Federal recognition would make Lumbee tribe members eligible for health care, education, housing, and other federal benefits currently available only to members of officially recognized tribes. The bill also allows the Department of the Interior to hold land in trust for the tribe and requires federal agencies to work with tribal leaders to determine what services members need. **Who It Affects and Key Details** The bill primarily affects approximately 55,000 Lumbee tribe members, with special focus on those living in four North Carolina counties (Robeson, Cumberland, Hoke, and Scotland). It clarifies that North Carolina state law would govern criminal and civil cases on Lumbee lands, unless the tribe and federal government agree otherwise.

The legislation does not create a reservation or establish tribal gaming rights. **Current Status** The bill (S. 107) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and is currently under committee review. Federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe has been a longstanding political issue in North Carolina, with the tribe first petitioning for recognition in the 1980s.