Native News Weekly (March 15, 2026): D.C. Briefs

WASHINGTON — In addition to articles already covered by Native News Online, here is a roundup of other news released from Washington, D.C. that impacts Indian Country recently.

Padilla, Schiff Introduce Bill to Transfer 860 Acres to Pechanga Tribe

U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff have introduced legislation to place 860 acres of federal land into trust for the Pechanga Band of Indians. Companion legislation in the House was introduced by Darrell Issa.

The bill would transfer land currently managed by the Bureau of Land Management to the Tribe, supporting restoration efforts, protection of culturally significant sites, and improved environmental stewardship.

The Pechanga people have lived in the Temecula Valley for more than 10,000 years. After being forced from their ancestral village of Teméeku in 1875, the Tribe reestablished itself nearby, leading to the creation of the Pechanga Indian Reservation in 1882, which today spans about 7,000 acres.

Padilla said the legislation would help reunify ancestral lands and ensure the area is managed according to the Tribe’s cultural traditions. Schiff added that the measure supports the Tribe’s long-standing efforts to protect and restore sacred sites.

Pechanga Tribal Chairman Mark Macarro thanked Padilla for introducing the bill, calling it an important step toward restoring ancestral lands and reuniting the sacred Pu’éska Mountain while strengthening the Tribe’s sovereignty and protection of cultural resources.

HUD Seeks Tribal Input on Section 184 Program Updates

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is requesting feedback from Tribes on potential updates to the Section 184 Indian Housing Loan Guarantee Program regulations. The goal is to reduce administrative burdens and make homeownership more accessible in Tribal communities.

HUD is particularly seeking Tribal input on:

• Streamlining program requirements
• Improving coordination with other federal and Tribal programs
• Strengthening loss mitigation policies
• Expanding lender participation
• Enhancing communication between Tribes and lenders

Deadline for comments: March 28, 2026
Submit to: Section184consultation@hud.gov
Subject line: “Tribal Consultation on HUD Section 184 Program Rulemaking”

Tribal feedback is essential to ensure the Section 184 Program meets the needs of Tribes and their members.

Read the “Dear Tribal Leader” Letter

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