However, I will attempt to address the proposed funding levels that are available and to highlight those programs that we believe are critically important to Indian nations. Department of Housing and Urban Development HUD programs provide critical resources for housing and economic development in Native American communities where grinding poverty and socio-economic conditions create challenges that simply do not exist in other areas of this country. Adequate Indian housing funding is critical since 40 percent of Indian reservation housing currently is considered substandard, compared to the national substandard housing rate of 5.9 percent. Department of Veterans Affairs Mr. Chairman, adequate funding for Veterans programs is another critical concern of Indian Country. Native American veterans have served the United States with honor and distinction since this nation was founded.
Indian people have the highest percentage of veterans of any population within the United States.
According to the Veterans Administration, over 160,000 American Indians have served in the Armed Forces. Native people also carry the proud distinction of being the most decorated group in this country's history. Today, Native veterans have many pressing needs such as housing, health care, benefits, and other concerns that include issues unique to Indian Country. We urge continued support for the Native American Veterans Housing Loan Program. While only a small program, the Native American Veterans Housing Loan Program is vital, since it provides direct loans to veterans living on trust land.