Staff Reports
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The 25th Navajo Nation Council unanimously approved Legislation No. 0006-26, amending the Navajo Nation Council Rules of Order, March 5.
Legislation No. 0006-26, sponsored by Council Delegate George H. Tolth, was deliberated during the 2026 Winter Council Session, when the Council voted to refer the legislation back to the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee for further review.
“I commend the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee Title Two Reform Subcommittee for taking the time to assess the Rules of Order and implement changes that streamline processes and address problematic language,” Tolth said.
Legislation co-sponsor Shawna Ann Claw provided an update on the actions taken as the legislation progressed.
“This legislation was considered during the Winter Session and referred back to the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee,” she said. “Several delegates offered recommendations for amendments, which have since been incorporated. We heard the concerns expressed by our colleagues and acted on them.”
Claw noted that proposed amendments requiring the Navajo Nation President to deliver the State of the Navajo Nation Address in person remain unchanged due to ongoing litigation.
The amendments to the Navajo Nation Council Rules of Order address several procedural areas, including the conduct of Council Delegates, sanctions for disorderly behavior, the authorities of the Speaker of the Navajo Nation Council, agenda procedures, debate and motions, points of privilege and order, voting procedures, suspension of floor rules, appeals of decisions, reports to the Council, and recess procedures.
“The amendments to the Navajo Nation Council Rules of Order will take effect during the 2026 Spring Council Session,” Claw said.
The 25th Navajo Nation Council unanimously approved Legislation No. 0006-26 with a vote of 17 in favor and none opposed. The Navajo Nation Council serves as final authority for the legislation.
The 2026 Spring Council Session begins April 20.
