HHS Eases Grant Rules for Native American Programs
Published Date: 6/18/2026
Rule
Summary
This new rule cuts out old, confusing paperwork and rules for Native American programs, making it easier for tribes and Native organizations to get grants and support. It affects Native communities across the U.S. and kicks in on August 17, 2026, helping save time and reduce hassle without changing funding amounts. Basically, it’s a smoother, faster way to boost Native-led projects and community growth.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Cuts Red Tape for Native Grant Applicants
The rule removes many duplicative or obsolete regulations for Native American programs so tribes and Native organizations can apply for ANA grants with less paperwork and hassle. The Department says this will not change funding amounts (ANA awarded $50,738,495 in FFY 2025) and will take effect August 17, 2026; the rule also states it does not create any new information-collection requirements needing OMB approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act.
Grant Details Moved to NOFOs and Terms
The rule transfers details that were in regulation—like project approval procedures, grant length, application submission requirements, eligible applicants, and ineligible activities—into Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) or grant terms and conditions so those specifics will be published in sub-regulatory documents going forward.
For-Profit Entities Explicitly Eligible
By removing a duplicative regulatory qualifier, the final rule returns program text to statutory language and allows research, demonstration, pilot projects, technical assistance, and training dollars under Sections 804 and 805 to be awarded to for-profit private agencies.
Old Native Hawaiian Loan Fund Rules Removed
The rule removes regulatory text for the Native Hawaiian Revolving Loan Fund (NHRLF) demonstration project because appropriations for that program ended in FY2001 and the demonstration period has ended; HHS says if Congress reappropriates funds, applicable regulations will be reestablished.
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Key Dates
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