ANADARKO, Okla. – The federal government has approved leasing regulations for a third Oklahoma tribe in line with a 2012 federal law that expands self-governance opportunities.

On Thursday, the Bureau of Indian Affairs announced the decision by Assistant Secretary Kevin Washburn to green light proposed leasing regulations from the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes, along with those submitted by three other tribes across the country. Washburn’s move is in line with the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act.

Enacted in July 2012, the HEARTH Act restores the authority of federally recognized tribes to develop and implement their own laws governing the long-term leasing of Indian lands for residential, business and other purposes. Upon one-time approval of tribal regulations by the Department of the Interior, tribes have the authority to process land leases without seeking additional permission from the Bureau of Indian Affairs for each individual application.

“The business site leasing regulations approved under the HEARTH Act is part of a larger goal for the tribe in developing our infrastructure to diversify the tribe’s economy,” said Terri Parton, president of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes. “The business site leasing regulations will help us prepare for future business opportunities by assuming the authority and responsibility to approve leases within the tribe’s jurisdiction. We hope that Mr. Washburn will continue to promote self-determination and economic development on tribal trust lands through the support of policies, which empower tribes to acquire and manage their properties for the benefit of their members.”

The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes have about 2,500 enrolled citizens. Within its jurisdictional area in Caddo County, the tribe operates a travel plaza and a casino.

 To date, leasing regulations for 12 tribes have received federal approval, including the Citizen Potawatomi Nation and the Kaw Nation.