Haskell Indian Nations University Improvement Act

This bill would make Haskell Indian Nations University an independent, federally chartered, tax‑exempt university with its own 15‑member board, generally drawn from enrolled members of Indian Tribes . The school stays in Lawrence, Kansas, can open branches, and continues to offer tuition‑free college to Native students . It may limit admissions to tribal members or certain descendants and give preference to tribal members in hiring and contracts, and it can accept private donations to support its mission .

The Interior Department would keep supporting the university with grants, while a permanent trust fund (an endowment) would help stabilize finances . It starts with $5 million in FY2026 and grows through private or Tribal gifts that are matched with federal funds; interest can help pay for operations . The bill also authorizes at least $27 million each year for the school, and Congress may not base funding decisions on how much the school fundraises. On enactment, the campus and related property transfer to the new university; the school handles new obligations, while the federal government remains responsible for past obligations for up to two years . The university must follow cultural and historic protection laws, and injury claims follow the same rules as claims against federal agencies .

• Who is affected

  • Members of Indian Tribes (including Alaska Native tribes) seeking college; current Haskell employees; the Lawrence, Kansas campus .

• What changes

  • Independent, federally chartered, tax‑exempt status with its own board .
  • Option to limit admissions to Native students and give preference in hiring and contracts to tribal members.
  • Creation of an endowment with federal matching, plus at least $27 million per year in support .
  • Employees remain eligible for health and retirement benefits, and the university must contribute and undergo annual audits.

• When

  • Most transfers and responsibilities take effect on enactment; campus property moves that day.
  • Initial $5 million for the endowment is for FY2026.
  • A campus facilities master plan is due within two years; annual budget proposals are due by April 1; yearly funds become available on June 1.