On October 31, 2025, CHP Partner Jessie Barrington presented “HEARTH & Hexes: Crafting Sovereign Leasing Magic” as part of Schwabe’s “Bureaucratic Zombies & Tribal Grit: Resilience in the Shadows of Government” virtual conference. In her presentation, Jessie explained how Tribal Nations can utilize the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Home Ownership Act of 2012 (the “HEARTH Act”) to gain greater control over surface leasing and expedite housing, business, and renewable energy projects on Tribal lands. Drawing on her experience in federal Indian law and Tribal governance, she explained the legal framework for HEARTH regulations, Tribal environmental review, and the practical steps from signing a lease to obtaining a title record. Jessie also clarified the differences between HEARTH leases, rights of way, and revocable use permits. Throughout the presentation, she highlighted common pitfalls, shared real-world examples, and offered concrete strategies to help Tribal Nations pair sovereignty with efficient, reliable leasing processes.
If you would like to discuss any of the issues covered in this presentation or explore how they may apply to your community, please contact Jessie Barrington at jessie@