Audit faults Washington over stalled Native homeownership program

More than 300 homes in Washington are now eligible for Native tenant ownership through a federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, but none has been transferred, according to reporting by Underscore Native News and ICT. A 2024 state audit found that the Washington State Housing Finance Commission failed for more than two decades to create policies, oversight or guidance for the Eventual Tenant Ownership program and initially undercounted eligible homes, listing 135 instead of 160 by 2023.

Updated policies adopted in 2024 and 2025 require regular progress reports, clearer guidance for tribal housing authorities and yearly certifications. The commission has approved tenant transfer plans for the Tulalip Tribal Housing Department and the Spokane Indian Housing Authority, with plans from Colville and Nooksack nearing approval and Quinault and Lower Elwha still in development. State Rep. Gerry Pollet said legislation is needed to ensure accountability and move Native tenants into ownership.