News Release
24th Navajo Nation Council
On October 18, the 24th Navajo Nation Council concluded their 2022 Fall Session at the Navajo Nation Council Chambers in Window Rock, Arizona. Nine (9) legislations were placed on the agenda, with four (4) legislations successfully passing, two (2) legislations withdrawn, one (1) tabled for 30 days, one (1) referred back to the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee, and one (1) failed during the quarterly session.
“I thank my fellow colleagues of the 24th Navajo Nation Council for meeting at this last quarterly session to discuss the issues that impact our Navajo families, elders and veterans,” said Speaker Damon (Bááhaalí, Chichiltah, Manuelito, Red Rock, Rock Springs, Tséyatoh). “Improving the lives of our Navajo People and the Navajo Nation will always remain a top priority across the three branches of government.”
Before the session began, two awareness walks were held for domestic violence month and Navajo relatives living with disabilities. Honorable Amber Kanazbah Crotty, Honorable Eugene Tso, and Honorable Eugenia Charles-Newton hosted a press conference outside the Chambers to speak on the issues which affect the Navajo Nation.
On the first day of the Fall Session, President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer gave the State of the Nation Address, while Honorable Speaker Seth Damon and Chief Justice JoAnn Jayne provided reports from the Navajo Nation Legislative and Judicial Branch, respectively.
In addition to the reports provided, Madam Controller Elizabeth Begay provided a financial update to the Navajo Nation regarding various accounts and funds as well as ARPA Hardship checks. Oral Reports from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Health Services, the Navajo Attorney General, and the Navajo Nation Youth Advisory Council were heard until the early hours of Monday evening.
On Wednesday morning, members of the 24th Navajo Nation Council were given the opportunity to recognize distinguished individuals who have significantly progressed the Nation forward. Each person recognized, successfully accomplished major milestones within their lifetimes and/or industries.
Lastly, Speaker Seth Damon informed the 24th Navajo Nation Council of a Special Session to be held within the next 30 days to address the legislations that were tabled and referred back to the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee. The Special Session will also hear other upcoming legislations ready for the 24th Navajo Nation Council.
“The successes and challenges presented this week will serve as valuable lessons in which as elected leaders, we may reflect on them in order to advance our Nation as a whole to ensure our grandchildren have access to opportunities on the Navajo Nation,” added Speaker Damon.
The Fall Session was held via telecommunications due to the Navajo Nation’s current Public Health Orders. The session can be viewed on the Navajo Nation Council’s Facebook and YouTube pages. To view the status of current and past legislations please visit Diné Bibeehaz’aanii Binaaltsoos at http://dibb.nnols.org/publicreporting.aspx.
