13. Economic Barriers from Federal Policies
Federal policies have created significant economic obstacles for Native American tribes, including bureaucratic red tape, restricted access to capital, and complex land trust systems. These challenges hinder economic development and self-determination. For instance, a 2024 report by the Government Accountability Office highlighted systemic barriers that limit tribes’ access to federal programs and funding, such as complex application processes and financial constraints. (gao.gov) Additionally, the fractionation of land ownership, resulting from historical policies like the Dawes Act, has led to parcels with numerous owners, complicating development efforts. (nativeamericantribes.info) Tribes often resist these federal interventions, advocating for greater self-determination over economic development to promote sustainable growth and preserve cultural heritage. (americanbar.org)
