Staff Reports
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — During the opening day of the 2026 Winter Session on Jan. 26, Speaker Crystalyne Curley delivered the Speaker’s Report outlining legislative priorities, emerging challenges, and ongoing efforts to protect the rights, health, and well-being of the Diné people.
“As we begin the 2026 Winter Session, we remain committed to listening to our people, strengthening our institutions, and advocating for the dignity and rights of Navajo citizens wherever they live,” she said. “Together, guided by our teachings and our resilience, we will continue to move our Nation forward.”
Among the issues addressed was the growing concern over reports of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in urban areas with large Navajo populations. Speaker Curley confirmed that there has been no verified ICE presence within Navajo communities but acknowledged widespread fear among Navajo citizens living off the Nation.
She reported that the Council is working with federal partners and tribal coalitions to share accurate information and ensure citizens are aware of their rights. She also announced that during the winter session, legislation will be considered to urge federal agencies to recognize tribal identification documents and expand vital records services for Navajo citizens living in urban areas.
The Speaker also addressed the Council’s previously adopted American Rescue Plan Act Hardship Plan, which establishes a framework to prevent unspent federal funds from being returned if projects are not completed by the federal deadline. She reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to ensuring federal relief dollars ultimately benefit Navajo families.
She highlighted the continued work of the Missing and Murdered Diné Relatives Task Force, offering condolences to families affected by recent tragedies and recognizing the Task Force’s efforts to strengthen coordination with law enforcement, expand family support services, and improve long-term response systems, including the development of a centralized missing persons database.
Updates were also provided on the recent rollout of the Dayforce Enterprise Resource Planning system. Speaker Curley acknowledged significant payroll and operational challenges that affected employees across branches of government. The Legislative Branch, she said, will continue working with the Executive Branch to ensure payroll accuracy and protect employees from system-related hardships.
Curley reaffirmed the Council’s longstanding advocacy for the remediation of more than 500 abandoned uranium mines on Navajo land. She cited recent support for advanced cleanup technologies and emphasized the need for community engagement and federal accountability to address long-term environmental and health impacts.
Additional updates included the transition of the Navajo Nation Youth Advisory Council to the Legislative Branch, ongoing consultation with the Indian Health Service regarding proposed realignment plans, and continued support for Navajo veterans through legislative initiatives focused on housing, mental health, and recognition of service.
The Speaker also recognized recent community outreach efforts conducted by the Council and the Office of the Speaker, including holiday events and donations benefiting Navajo children and families throughout the Nation.
The 25th Navajo Nation Council voted 11 in favor and one opposed to accept the written 2026 Winter Session Speaker’s Report. In closing, the Speaker thanked the Diné people, reiterating the 25th Navajo Nation Council’s continued commitment to resolving the concerns and challenges brought forth by the Navajo people.
To read the full 2026 Winter Session Speaker’s Report, visit the Committee’s section of the 25th Navajo Nation Council’s webpage at: https://www.navajonationcouncil.org/committees.
