Staff Reports
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Speaker Crystalyne Curley delivered her report to the 25th Navajo Nation Council on the opening day of the 2026 Spring Session April 20, outlining legislative priorities and accomplishments related to infrastructure, Navajo water rights, fiscal planning, reapportionment, and voting rights protections.
“Over the past three months, the Council has remained strong and focused through the work of our standing committees, continuing the progress we have built over the last four years,” she said. “This Spring Session is an important step as we prepare for the Summer Session, where we anticipate major legislation addressing Title 26, the Personnel Manual, and Title 12. I thank the Council for continuing to show up and serve our people despite our budget limitations.”
Curley also welcomed Council Delegate Titus Nez, who was appointed March 18 to represent Churchrock, Iyanbito, Mariano Lake, Pinedale, Smith Lake, and Thoreau.
She emphasized the Council’s continued efforts to protect Navajo water rights through Colorado River negotiations and the Northern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement.
In March, leaders from the Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, and San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, urging congressional approval of the settlement. The agreement would resolve longstanding water rights claims and support critical infrastructure investments to provide long-term water security for communities across northern Arizona.
Curley said Arizona’s ongoing water shortages make collaboration with the Navajo Nation essential for sustainable planning and regional stability.
“You cannot talk about economic development without talking about water first,” she said.“Securing Navajo water rights is fundamental to expanding housing, economic development, agriculture, and public safety.”
She also addressed Fiscal Year 2027 revenue projections presented to the Budget and Finance Committee, which estimate approximately $301 million in total revenues, with about $218 million available for the general fund after mandatory set-asides.
Additional priorities included approval of the 2025 Reapportionment Plan to ensure fair representation for Navajo communities over the next decade and formal opposition to Hpuse Resolution 7296, known as the SAVE Act, due to concerns over barriers it could create for Navajo voters.
Curley spoke about protecting voting rights in state and federal elections and thanked the Council for their approval of legislation to oppose the SAVE Act in Congress.
Council Delegates Titus Nez and Vince R. James expressed appreciation for Speaker Curley’s leadership
“You probably do not hear many compliments, but I want to thank you for the work you do as Speaker of the 25th Navajo Nation Council,” Nez said.
James also acknowledged the challenges of serving communities amid limited resources.
“You continue working to make sure services reach our communities despite limited funds and budget challenges,” he said. “I appreciate you, your staff, and the Legislative Branch for continuing to support the Council and assist every delegate in serving our people.”
The 25th Navajo Nation Council unanimously accepted Curley’s 2026 Spring Session report with a vote of 19 in favor and none opposed.
