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Senate urges congressional action on Utah Navajo royalties, passes companion bill
Summary
After debate about trust administration and local tribal concerns, the Senate passed a concurrent resolution urging Congress to change management of Navajo Reservation royalties and a companion bill to transition funds; both measures passed the Senate under suspension.
The Utah Senate moved on a pair of measures concerning management of royalties from Utah Navajo Reservation lands. Under a motion by Senator Bramble, the chamber uncircled and considered House Concurrent Resolution 4 urging Congress to reassign management of these royalties and a companion bill (House Bill 352) adjusting state law for the transition.
Senators said the state’s role as trustee for certain funds has led to repeated litigation and administrative burden; one speaker said, "Enough is enough," arguing the Navajo Nation is better placed to manage the funds and that congressional action is the appropriate path. Senators from districts with Utah Navajo communities urged safeguards to ensure Utah Navajos retain a fair share of revenues.
After debate, the Senate passed HCR4 and then, under suspension of the rules, passed House Bill 352. The clerk recorded 28 yes votes on the resolution and House Bill 352 passed 27 yes, 0 nays and 2 absent. Supporters said the measures are a transitional step while Congress considers designating a new recipient for the royalties; opponents and tribal representatives had testified in committee about concerns that local Utah Navajos might lose influence over the fund.
