WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The Naabik’íyáti’ Committee of the 25th Navajo Nation Council approved the Navajo Nation’s 2025 State of New Mexico Legislative Priorities Jan. 9, solidifying the Nation’s policy agenda for the upcoming legislative session in New Mexico.
Legislation No. 0268-24 outlines a comprehensive strategy to advocate for essential resources and strengthen government-to-government collaboration with the state of New Mexico.
The resolution, sponsored by Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty and co-sponsored by Council Delegate Dr. Andy Nez, addresses critical issues impacting Navajo communities, including infrastructure funding, public safety, healthcare, and education. These legislative priorities aim to ensure fair funding, streamline grant processes, and strengthen partnerships with state officials to better serve Navajo citizens living in New Mexico.
“Our legislative priorities are not just a document—they reflect the urgent needs of our people and our dedication to advocating for their wellbeing,” Crotty said. “We are calling on New Mexico’s government to recognize the Navajo Nation’s three-branch governance system and engage in meaningful consultation on policies that affect our communities.”
The 2025 priorities focus on addressing key challenges faced by Navajo communities across New Mexico. The Council is urging the removal of restrictive grant conditions that have delayed infrastructure projects and prevented timely use of state-allocated funds. Public safety is also a major priority, with calls for improved emergency response systems, rural addressing, and increased police presence in remote areas.
In healthcare and behavioral health, the Nation seeks enhanced collaboration with the state to expand mental health services and close critical care gaps. The Council is also advocating for more equitable education funding to support over 25,000 Navajo students in New Mexico schools, including investments in vocational training and the creation of an Indian Education Trust Fund.
An amendment introduced by Delegate Danny Simpson, which updates Exhibit A of the legislation to reflect the most current legislative priorities, was also approved with strong support from the committee.
The Naabik’íyáti’ Committee emphasized the importance of ongoing engagement with New Mexico officials to ensure that Diné voices are heard in legislative decisions. The Council is advocating for increased Navajo representation on state commissions and boards, as well as quarterly coordination meetings between New Mexico agencies and Navajo governmental leaders.
The legislative priorities also call for policy changes to address environmental concerns, including opposition to radiation repositories near Diné lands and securing funding for uranium mine cleanups and water infrastructure projects.
With the adoption of these 2025 legislative priorities, the Navajo Nation Council is now empowered to advocate for them in Santa Fe during the upcoming legislative session. Recent meetings with New Mexico lawmakers, including Sen. George Muñoz and Sen. Shannon Pinto, have shown growing support for the Nation’s efforts.
The Naabik’íyáti’ Committee approved Legislation No. 0268-24 with a vote of 14 in favor and none opposed. As the final authority on this legislation, the committee’s approval paves the way for the presentation of these priorities to New Mexico legislators.