S. 5247: Defense Community Infrastructure Program Tribal Eligibility Act of 2026

This bill would change a Department of Defense grant program so that Indian Tribes can apply for funding in the same way that certain states, local governments, and other entities already can.

What the current program does

The Defense Community Infrastructure Program helps pay for public infrastructure projects in communities that support military installations. These projects are meant to address needs that affect service members and their families, such as roads, schools, water systems, or other facilities tied to a base’s operations and nearby community services.

What the bill changes

The bill amends Section 2391 of Title 10 of the U.S. Code to:

• add Indian Tribes to the list of eligible applicants in the program;
• update related wording so that references to “government” and “local government” also include Indian Tribe where appropriate;
• define “Indian Tribe” by using the definition already found in federal law in the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.

Practical effect

If enacted, the bill would allow tribal governments to seek defense community infrastructure funding for eligible projects connected to military installations and surrounding communities. In practice, this could mean tribes in or near military areas could compete for federal support for infrastructure projects that serve both the tribe and defense-related needs.

What the bill does not do

The bill does not create a new program or add new funding by itself. It mainly expands who is allowed to apply under an existing program and adjusts the law’s language to reflect that change.

Relevant Companies

None found