On Monday, Congressman Mark Harris announced that the Lumbee Fairness Act has been included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2026. The legislation aims to grant full federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe.
“For decades, the Lumbee People have sought full federal recognition—and today, we are closer than ever to making it a reality. We have used every tool at our disposal to secure recognition in this year’s NDAA. I’m deeply grateful to President Trump for his longstanding championship of the Lumbee Tribe and for working across both chambers of Congress to deliver the full federal recognition and rights our people deserve. Now is the time—let’s get it over the finish line!” said Congressman Harris.
The Lumbee Tribe is recognized as the largest American-Indian tribe east of the Mississippi River and ranks as the ninth largest tribe nationwide. Most members reside in Robeson, Hoke, Cumberland, and Scotland Counties within Congressman Harris’ district.
Congressman Harris co-led the introduction of the Lumbee Fairness Act as his first bill after entering Congress.
