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Senate approves substitute resolution backing proposed changes to Utah Navajo Trust Fund distributions
Summary
Senators adopted a substitute to SJR5 supporting proposed federal changes that would shift certain royalty distributions so the Utah Navajo Trust Fund receives about 62.5% and the Navajo Nation about 37.5% of affected royalties; proponents said the change directs more resources to Utah Navajo communities; the substitute passed 27–0 in the recorded floor sequence.
The Senate considered and adopted a first substitute to Senate Joint Resolution 5 regarding proposed federal changes to distributions to the Utah Navajo Trust Fund.
Senator Hinkins explained the substitute adds explicit percentage distributions, stating that under the substitute the Utah Navajo Trust Fund would receive roughly 62.5% of certain royalties and the Navajo Nation the remainder (about 37.5%). He said the change would direct additional resource flows to local Utah Navajo communities, citing a current trust-fund balance ("about $66,000,000" as referenced in floor remarks) and urging the Senate's support for Congressional action.
Senator Dabakis asked whether the change would transfer funds away from the Navajo Nation; the sponsor clarified the change involves distributions among Native entities and argued it would increase resources available locally for roads, education and local needs. Senator Van Tassel supported the substitute as an opportunity to bring more funds to local Utah Navajo residents.
The clerk recorded that first substitute SJR5 "received 27 yay votes, 0 nay votes, 2 being absent," and the substitute was ordered to be read for a subsequent stage of consideration.
