I applaud the committee's efforts today to reauthorize NAHASDA. I have some additional views I would like to add. I was prepared to offer an amendment to this bill to add a section promoting economic infrastructure. By agreement with the Chairman that legislation has been embodied in a stand alone bill (H.R. 3002) because although this legislation continues the practice of giving Tribes more flexibility to develop housing, I believe we can and should do more. NAHASDA reauthorization is critical to addressing Native American housing needs. Tribes need adequate flexibility and autonomy to use Indian Housing Block Grant dollars efficiently and in a manner that makes the most sense for tribal members' specific needs. Since NAHASDA was implemented in 1996, tribes have seen more flexibility to use their grant money for infrastructure and rehabilitation of homes. I believe we need to take a closer look down the road to address infrastructure support and economic development in future legislation, and I look forward to working toward helping Tribes to meet their housing goals.

STEVAN PEARCE.