In 2022, after the measure was introduced in the House, the Congressional Budget Office estimated the federal government would spend nearly $250 million in providing health benefits to Lumbee Tribe members over four years through the Indian Health Service.

Federally recognized tribes hold certain rights to self-governance. The designation expands tribal control over economic development by authorizing the BIA to take land into trust for the benefit of the tribe.

The Lumbee first petitioned Congress for federal recognition in 1888. The tribe then only received partial recognition in 1956.

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein applauded this week’s milestone. “The state has long recognized the Lumbee Tribe,” he said in a news release. “Full federal recognition will allow members access to the federal health care, education, housing, child care, and disaster relief benefits afforded other federally recognized tribes. These benefits will in turn create economic opportunities for the Tribe and the surrounding community.”