Federal Recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina

On January 23, 2025, a memorandum from the President was issued to support the full federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, which would grant them access to federal benefits previously denied. This action follows the passage of the Lumbee Fairness Act by the House, although it stalled in the Senate, and directs the Secretary of the Interior to devise a plan within 90 days to achieve recognition through legislative or other means. The move holds significant legal and political implications, potentially setting a precedent for other tribes seeking federal recognition and benefits.