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25th Navajo Nation Council, Window Rock, AZ (2026)

10/22/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council approves referendum on setting delegates’ annual salaries at $70,000, ending meeting stipends and approving future raises

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Wednesday, the 25th Navajo Nation Council approved Legislation No. 0232-26, which establishes a referendum asking voters to decide whether to raise delegates’ annual base salary from $25,000 to $70,000 and eliminate meeting stipends.

“This legislation is about giving the Navajo people the opportunity to decide how their elected representatives are compensated,” Delegate Charles-Newton said. “The Council is not voting to give itself an immediate salary increase. We are asking voters to decide whether a fixed annual salary should replace the current system of base pay and meeting stipends. Ultimately, the decision belongs to the Navajo people.”

A referendum lets registered Navajo voters approve or reject proposed changes to Navajo law in an election. Under Legislation No. 0232-26, voters would decide on two separate ballot measures, each requiring a majority of votes cast to pass.

Measure A would raise Council delegates' annual salaries from $25,000 to $70,000 and end stipends for sessions, committee meetings, and other official duties. If approved, the new salary and stipend ban would begin with the first biweekly pay period of the next Navajo Nation fiscal year, after election results are certified. If rejected, the current system would remain.

Measure B would require Navajo voters to approve future salary increases by referendum, replacing the current requirement that two-thirds of Navajo Nation chapters ratify them within 120 days. If rejected, the current rule remains; if passed, the new rule takes effect once election results are certified.

Charles-Newton explained that the current statutory salary of $25,000 was set in 1989, when the Council had 88 delegates, compared with 24 today. Delegates also receive stipends for attending eligible meetings, generally $60 per meeting, while certain presiding chairs receive $80.

At a previous Naabik’íyáti’ Committee special meeting, Charles-Newton said the fiscal year 2027 budget allocates $966,860 for Council meeting stipends, plus funding for the Naabik’íyáti’ and standing committees. Combined with base salary, some delegates could earn about $71,000–$73,000 annually, depending on attendance and committee assignments.

Charles-Newton emphasized that the proposed $70,000 salary is intended to replace the current combination of base pay and meeting stipends, not provide an additional $70,000 on top of existing compensation.

The legislation also establishes the process for conducting the referendum. The proposed measures would be placed on the next qualifying regularly scheduled Navajo Nation election ballot at least 60 days after the resolution takes effect. If no qualifying election is scheduled, the legislation provides for a special election.

Charles-Newton emphasized that the legislation does not authorize an immediate salary increase. Instead, it establishes a process for Navajo voters to decide delegate compensation and how to approve future salary increases.

The 25th Navajo Nation Council approved Legislation No. 0232-26 by a vote of 10 in favor and nine opposed. Once certified and delivered to the Office of the President and Vice President, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren will have 10 days to consider the resolution.

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10/22/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council votes against confirmation of JoAnn Jayne as attorney general and directs her immediate removal

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Wednesday, the 25th Navajo Nation Council voted against confirming JoAnn Jayne as Navajo Nation attorney general and directed her immediate removal from the Office of the Attorney General, citing the Council’s appointment and approval authority under the Navajo Nation Code.

“The law is clear. When the previous attorney general vacated the office, immediate removal was not a matter of asking permission. They understood the law and did not challenge it,” said legislation sponsor and Law and Order Committee Chairwoman Eugenia Charles-Newton. “The purpose of this legislation is to uphold the law and ensure the appointment process established by the Navajo Nation Code is followed. No delegate stepped forward to sponsor legislation to confirm Jayne’s appointment, so I chose to sponsor it. That legislation failed, and the Council’s authority must be respected.”

Legislation No. 0230-26 declines to appoint and approve Jayne as attorney general, reaffirming that a presidential recommendation does not independently authorize an individual to serve in either position. The Council also rejects Jayne serving as attorney general in a permanent, acting or interim capacity.

The Council’s approval of Legislation No. 0230-26 followed its vote on Legislation No. 0228-26, which sought to confirm Jayne’s appointment as attorney general. The Council voted against confirming Jayne with a vote of eight in favor and 11 opposed.

Under 2 N.N.C. § 1962(B), the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General must be licensed attorneys appointed by the Navajo Nation Council upon the President’s recommendation. Appointments become effective upon Council approval, and both positions serve at the pleasure of the Council.

President Buu Nygren recommended Jayne for Deputy Attorney General on Dec. 9, 2025. She subsequently served as acting deputy attorney general without Council appointment and approval. On Aug. 27, 2026, the Council certified Resolution No. CAU-49-26, declining to appoint and approve Jayne as Deputy Attorney General and directing her removal from that office. Four days later, President Nygren recommended Jayne for attorney general, a separate position subject to the same appointment and approval requirements.

Under Legislation No. 0230-26, Jayne must immediately cease representing herself as attorney general, stop exercising the authority of that office, vacate the office and surrender government property, credentials, records, files and other materials held in connection with her purported service.

The legislation directs Navajo Nation government departments, divisions, programs, chapters and entities not to recognize Jayne as attorney general or rely on counsel, opinions, directions or actions she subsequently issues while purporting to exercise the office’s authority.

The Navajo Nation Department of Justice and Department of Personnel Management are directed to complete the personnel actions necessary to terminate Jayne’s employment with the Department of Justice, including the cessation of salary and employee benefits in accordance with applicable Navajo Nation law and personnel policies.

The legislation does not automatically invalidate prior actions taken by the Office of the Attorney General. Any challenge to a specific prior action must be evaluated under applicable Navajo Nation law.

The Council voted 11 in favor and seven opposed to approve Legislation No. 0230-26. The resolution takes effect upon certification by the Speaker of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, pursuant to 2 N.N.C. § 221(A) and (C).

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10/22/2026

Navajo Nation Council honors four individuals during third day of Fall Session

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Wednesday, the 25th Navajo Nation Council recognized achievements in youth rodeo, education, community service, and telecommunications during the third day of Fall Session.

Council Delegates Dr. Andy Nez, Titus Nez and Shawna Ann Claw presented certificates recognizing the honorees’ contributions to the Navajo Nation. Each certificate included recognition from Speaker Crystalyne Curley and the presenting delegate.

Delegate Dr. Andy Nez honored Kyler Kee of Fort Defiance for earning the 2026 Indian National Finals Rodeo Junior Bull Riding World Champion title. Nez commended Kee’s dedication and encouraged families to support young people in their educational and athletic pursuits.

Delegate Dr. Nez emphasized that Kee’s accomplishment brings pride to Fort Defiance and the broader Navajo Nation. He also acknowledged the relatives whose encouragement and support helped Kee pursue the championship.

Kee credited discipline, consistent practice and family support for helping him qualify for the competition and achieve the world title.

Delegate Titus Nez recognized Janice Becenti of Iyanbito, N.M., for 50 years of service with the Bureau of Indian Education, her military service and her leadership as an educator and Iyanbito Chapter official.

Becenti’s certificate recognized her pioneering enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps as one of Iyanbito’s first women to serve. It also honored her lasting influence as a role model in Eastern Navajo, reflecting a lifetime of commitment to education, public service and community leadership.

Delegate Nez also honored Charlotte Begay of Iyanbito for 32 years of dedicated service to education through the Bureau of Indian Education, including work as a teacher and principal at Tse ii ahi Community School.

A graduate of Gallup High School and the University of New Mexico, Begay also served as a bilingual Navajo language instructor. Her recognition highlighted her contributions to education, Diné language and culture, and the empowerment of future generations.

During the presentation, Nez expressed appreciation for the honorees’ commitment, stating that the recognition was “for your dedication to our Navajo people.”

Delegate Shawna Ann Claw recognized Velena R. Tsosie for 21 years of service to the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, including 14 years providing telecommunications services to the Diné people.

Claw recalled Tsosie’s early work with the Chinle Diné Youth Program, where she served as an intern and volunteer coach, helping young people develop skills through basketball, running and cross training.

“To this day, many of our youth still look up to her, and she continues to guide them,” Claw said.

Claw also highlighted Tsosie’s professional experience in telecommunications, including her work supporting broadband access and programs serving elders, students and school districts. Her certificate honored her unwavering commitment and contributions, describing them as reflecting the strength and spirit of a warrior woman.

Tsosie thanked her family and colleagues and reflected on her progression from a billing clerk in 2005 to supervisory and executive leadership positions.

Reflecting on her approach to leadership, Tsosie said, “It was about making others better because of my presence, and making sure the impact lasted even in my absence.”

The recognitions highlighted the honorees’ individual accomplishments and the lasting influence of their service on Navajo families and communities.

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10/22/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council approves legislation to establish Diné Stolen Valor Act

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Wednesday, the 25th Navajo Nation Council approved Legislation No. 0180-26, which would amend Title 17 of the Navajo Nation Code to establish the Diné Stolen Valor Act. The legislation aims to protect the honor and legacy of Diné veterans and Navajo Code Talkers by preventing individuals from fraudulently claiming military service, honors or Code Talker status to obtain money, employment or other benefits.

“Our Diné veterans and Navajo Code Talkers have served with courage, sacrifice and honor, and their service deserves our highest respect,” said Council Delegate Eugenia Charles-Newton, sponsor of the legislation. “No one should be allowed to falsely claim military service or exploit the legacy of our warriors for personal gain. This legislation strengthens our ability to protect veterans, preserve the integrity of their service and ensure that benefits reach those who have rightfully earned them.”

The Diné Stolen Valor Act would establish criminal penalties and civil remedies for individuals who knowingly misrepresent military service, rank, decorations, combat experience or veteran status to obtain financial or other tangible benefits.

The legislation also specifically protects the legacy of the Navajo Code Talkers, whose use of the Diné language during World War II played a critical role in U.S. military communications. It would prohibit individuals from fraudulently claiming to be Code Talkers, falsely identifying themselves as family members or representatives of Code Talkers, or soliciting donations and benefits through unauthorized claims of association.

Council Delegate Nathan Notah, co-sponsor of the legislation, emphasized the importance of protecting veterans and the resources intended to support them.

“Our veterans earned their recognition and benefits through honorable service, and we have a responsibility to protect what they sacrificed for,” Delegate Notah said. “When individuals falsely claim military service or misuse the legacy of our Navajo Code Talkers for personal gain, they undermine the sacrifices of our warriors. This legislation sends a clear message: the Navajo Nation will stand behind its veterans and protect the benefits they have earned.”

The Navajo Nation, through the Navajo Nation Veterans Administration and other programs, provides trust funds, scholarships, housing assistance, employment and contracting preferences, and other resources to eligible Diné veterans and their families. Fraudulent claims can divert these limited resources from eligible veterans and undermine public trust in veterans' programs.

Modeled in part on the federal Stolen Valor Act of 2013, the proposed Diné Stolen Valor Act would provide additional protections addressing fraudulent claims involving Navajo Code Talkers and Navajo Nation veterans' programs.

Under the legislation, a criminal conviction could result in up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. Additional penalties could include restitution and forfeiture of fraudulently obtained benefits. Individuals, families, organizations and Navajo Nation programs harmed by fraudulent claims could also pursue civil remedies.

The legislation requires proof that an individual knowingly made a fraudulent claim with the specific intent to obtain money, property, employment or another tangible benefit. It also protects truthful statements, journalism, education, historical reenactments, artistic performances and ceremonial recognition. Errors, exaggerations or false statements alone would not constitute violations without fraudulent intent to obtain a benefit.

The proposal follows a formal request from the Northern Navajo Veterans Organization, which urged the Navajo Nation Council to establish protections against stolen valor to preserve the integrity of military service and safeguard veterans' trust funds and benefits.

The 25th Navajo Nation Council approved Legislation No. 0180-26 on the consent agenda by a vote of 21 in favor and none opposed. Once certified and delivered to the Office of the President and Vice President, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren will have ten days to consider the resolution.

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10/21/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council honors retirees, community service and student achievement

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Tuesday, the 25th Navajo Nation Council recognized retiring public servants, employees supporting water access and housing, and students advancing Diné language and culture during the second day of the 2026 Fall Council Session.

Council Delegate Brenda Jesus honored retired Navajo Tribal Utility Authority Deputy General Manager Rex Kontz and Navajo Special Diabetes Program employee Darwin Mitchell. Council Delegate Helena Nez Begay recognized Department of Water Resources employees for assisting Navajo communities, while Speaker Crystalyne Curley welcomed students and educators from Dream Diné Charter School in Shiprock, N.M.

Jesus recognized Kontz for more than four decades of service, including 39 years with NTUA, where he became the utility’s first deputy general manager. His responsibilities included engineering, construction, operations and infrastructure development across the Navajo Nation.

Jesus noted that homes connected to NTUA water systems increased from approximately 18,000 when Kontz joined the utility to approximately 40,000 by his departure. She also credited his collaboration with Council leadership and other stakeholders with helping streamline service line agreement approvals.

Kontz encouraged leaders to prioritize water rights and work together to expand infrastructure, describing utilities as essential to housing and economic development.

“We need to go from surviving to thriving. We have the ability to do it. We have the resources to do it, and I think we have the leadership to do it,” Kontz said.

Curley thanked Kontz for mentoring leaders and supporting discussions on infrastructure and public service.

“On a personal level, he serves as a mentor to many of us, especially young leaders,” Curley said.

Jesus also recognized Mitchell for promoting physical activity, diabetes prevention and healthier lifestyles through the Navajo Nation Special Diabetes Project, fitness programs, sports camps and community events. She praised his support for community 5K runs and walks and his encouragement of individuals pursuing healthier lives.

“His dedication extends far beyond physical fitness. It is about strengthening individuals, building healthier communities, and inspiring the next generation,” Jesus said.

Reflecting on approximately 40 years of employment, Mitchell credited colleagues, family and faith for supporting his service. He encouraged young people to prioritize their health and education.

“Stay healthy, eat right, and then plan ahead and enjoy life and get an education,” Mitchell said.

Nez Begay recognized Department of Water Resources employees for responding to requests from her delegate region during drought conditions, including working weekends and helping communities through the summer heat.

“I wanted to recognize individuals that really make the extra effort to really help my delegate regions when I needed help, especially through the drought seasons,” Nez Begay said.

She also acknowledged housing efforts involving the Navajo Hopi Land Commission, emphasizing the importance of helping families overcome longstanding restrictions on improving their homes. She presented certificates honoring employees for their dedication and commitment to community well-being.

Curley welcomed Dream Diné Charter School students and educators to the Council Chamber. Established in 2014, the Shiprock elementary school emphasizes Diné language, cultural identity, land-based education and academic achievement.

Andrea Thomas, the school’s third- through fifth-grade teacher, described its goal of preparing students for the future while maintaining strong community connections.

“In what way can we help our students be better prepared for the future while contributing to their community and staying within their community,” Thomas said.

Curley presented certificates recognizing the school’s achievement of traditional school status with the New Mexico Public Education Department for the 2025-2026 school year, crediting students, educators, staff and families for their commitment to academic success and cultural learning.

Throughout the morning, Council participants wore pink to raise breast cancer awareness and support individuals and families affected by cancer.

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10/21/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council - 2026 Fall Session Day 3

10/21/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council - 2026 Fall Session Day 3 Recognitions

10/20/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council receives Controller’s report addressing payroll delays, financial system transition and audit concerns

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Monday, the 25th Navajo Nation Council received a detailed report from Navajo Nation Controller Sean McCabe on the implementation of the Nation’s new financial management system, employee payroll delays, outstanding payments and financial audit updates.

During the report, Council delegates raised concerns about the transition from the Financial Management Information System (FMIS) to the new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and called for greater accountability, timely payments and improved financial oversight.

“Our Navajo Nation employees, chapters, veterans and programs depend on financial systems that are accurate, reliable and accountable,” said Speaker Crystalyne Curley. “We recognize the importance of modernizing our government’s financial operations, but that transition must not come at the expense of employees receiving their paychecks or communities receiving essential services.”

McCabe said the ERP system replaces the Nation’s aging FMIS platform with four applications for budgeting, payroll, vital records and financial management. The Office of the Controller oversees financial and supply chain management, while the Department of Human Services oversees Dayforce for payroll and personnel records.

According to McCabe, the new system will cost approximately $31 million over five years, including $14 million to $15 million in implementation expenses. He explained that the previous FMIS system had become increasingly difficult to update and integrate with other financial applications.

Council Delegate Brenda Jesus questioned whether the investment had delivered the promised improvements, particularly after employees experienced delayed direct deposits, incorrect deductions, short payments and discrepancies in leave balances.

McCabe acknowledged that the first payroll processing cycle experienced significant complications. He reported that an initial payroll file contained approximately $2 million in overstated payments resulting from timesheet errors, requiring corrections before the file could be released.

He explained that the payroll file was transmitted in time for most employees banking with Wells Fargo to receive their deposits Saturday morning. Several hundred employees using other financial institutions experienced additional delays, with deposits arriving Wednesday.

To prevent similar problems, McCabe said payroll files would be released one to two days earlier to allow more time for verification, processing and corrections before employees expect their deposits.

Council Delegate Dr. Andy Nez emphasized the importance of providing employees with accessible training and timely assistance. McCabe committed to coordinating additional ERP training, including one-on-one assistance for Navajo Nation Veterans Administration personnel.

McCabe outlined a five-step purchasing and payment process: programs submit electronic requisitions, obtain procurement approval, confirm receipt of goods or services, verify invoices and complete financial compliance reviews. The process aims to strengthen documentation and accountability while reducing paperwork.

Financial accountability remained a major focus as delegates requested updated fiscal year 2026 financial balances, clarification of negative federal fund balances, and information about outstanding purchase orders and potential overcommitments in capital outlay accounts.

McCabe said the Nation’s 2025 financial audit was complete and would be submitted to the Council. The federal single audit was expected soon, with preliminary concerns involving procurement compliance and whether spending under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) met federal requirements.

As of May 31, 2026, approximately 30,000 Navajo elders ages 75 and older had been identified as eligible for the ARPA hardship assistance program, with about 6,000 having applied for assistance, McCabe reported. Council members requested broader outreach through senior centers and the five agencies to help more eligible elders apply.

The 25th Navajo Nation Council stressed that continued oversight will be necessary to ensure payroll corrections, outstanding payments, audit findings and financial reporting concerns are fully addressed. The Council voted 16 in favor and none opposed to accept the Controller’s report.

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10/20/2026

Council Delegate Vince James recognizes cultural preservation of Ryedale Largo Dance Group

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Monday, before the opening session of the 2026 Fall Session, Council Delegate Vince R. James recognized the Ryedale Largo Dance Group in the Navajo Nation Council Chamber.

During the ceremony, Delegate James noted that the group, based in Pinedale, N.M., was established in 1910 and has performed for more than a century.

Across four generations, the group has shared its traditional dances and cultural heritage at gatherings throughout the Navajo Nation and across the United States.

The group expressed appreciation to Delegate James and the Council for recognizing its efforts to preserve and promote traditional culture.

Following the recognition, the Ryedale Largo Dance Group performed outside the Council Chamber. The 25th Navajo Nation Council extends its gratitude to the group for its performance and for bringing a positive spirit to the opening session.

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10/20/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council - 2026 Fall Session Day 2

25th Navajo Nation Council

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