NEWS RELEASE
ORGANIZATION CONTACT MEDIA CONTACT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The National Association of Tribal Historic preservation Officers (NATHPO) released the following statement on the president's proposed budget, which reduces funding for Historic Preservation Fund, which funds the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) program, by $158 million: "The proposed budget, which makes massive cuts to the Historic Preservation Fund, is a step in the wrong direction when it comes to fulfilling the Federal Government's trust responsibilities to Tribal Nations," said NATHPO Executive Director Dr. Valerie Grussing. "Tribal Nations want energy projects to move forward without unnecessary delays while also protecting their sacred places and cultural resources. The best and most responsible way to do that is to provide THPOs with additional resources to ensure they have what they need to perform their sacred work. Moreover, THPOs have yet to receive their Fiscal Year 2025 funding, which was contained in the continuing resolution signed into law nearly two months ago, and it is imperative that the Administration release these funds in the very near future. We hope the Administration will reconsider their budget proposal, that they will release THPOs' overdue funds for the current Fiscal Year, and that Congress will provide THPOs the funding they need." In the last Congress, legislation was introduced in both the House and Senate that would permanently require $300 million each year to be appropriated for the Historic Preservation Fund. Of that $300 million, at least 20 percent of the funds would be required to be allocated for THPOs. These bills demonstrate a clear path to ensuring THPO funding is both sound and keeps pace with the ever-growing number of Tribal Nations who choose to exercise their sovereignty by standing up a THPO program. Who we are – NATHPO is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) membership organization, founded in 1998, of Tribal preservation leaders protecting culturally important places that perpetuate Native identity, resilience, and cultural endurance. Connections to cultural heritage sustain the health and vitality of Native peoples. We provide guidance to preservation officials, elected representatives, and the public about national historic preservation legislation, policies, and regulations. We promote Tribal sovereignty, develop partnerships, and advocate for Tribes in governmental activities on preservation issues. For more information visit our website at www.nathpo.org. |
