Staff Reports
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The Budget and Finance Committee approved Legislation 0032-26, authorizing almost $3.7 million from the Unreserved, Undesignated Fund Balance to restore operational funding for Legislative Branch programs in Fiscal Year 2026 Feb. 17.
President Buu Nygren previously issued line-item vetoes on Resolutions CS-44-25, CS-45-25, and CN-56-25, which established the comprehensive FY26 budget while eliminating operating funds for Legislative Branch programs.
Legislation 0032-26, sponsored by BFC Chair Shaandiin Parrish, represents the fourth effort by the 25th Navajo Nation Council to restore funding for programs that have continued operating without appropriated funds since the initial line-item vetoes.
“The absence of operational funding has significantly limited the Legislative Branch’s ability to carry out its duties, particularly for the Naabik’iyati’ Committee and the Navajo Nation Council,” Parrish said. “The BFC remains committed to ensuring essential services continue and that the Legislative Branch is fully operational.”
The BFC also adopted a directive introduced by Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty requiring the Office of Management and Budget to submit a corrected memorandum and provide accurate supporting documentation by the next Naabik’iyati’ Committee meeting.
The legislation passed unanimously, with four votes in favor and none opposed. It now advances to the Naabik’iyati’ Committee and will proceed to the Navajo Nation Council for final consideration.
