“The amendments to SMCRA proposed under HR 785 will allow New Mexico to address critical uranium contamination and provide reclamation in Navajo tribal communities in complex jurisdictional areas, like the Navajo Eastern Agency,” White said.

“The unreasonable requirements of federal agencies cost tribes essential jobs and revenues. The way to accomplish economic self-sufficiency is to minimize federal involvement in tribal energy development, and maximize tribal decision-making,” Vice President Jim stated.

Navajo Nation Division of Transportation Director Paulson Chaco was one of 11 leaders honored at the White House today as a Champion of Change. Chaco was recognized for his department’s actions to improve safety on U.S. Highway 491, which runs through the eastern part of the Navajo Nation.

"We will continue to consolidate our efforts to educate America about the holy value of the San Francisco Peaks and sacred sites. This effort will include neighboring Indian Nations who hold sacred sites in the same significant value," President Shelly said.

“The Navajo Nation understands that these bills are driven by the need to promote jobs and revenue. As a tribe with large amounts of natural resources and mining interests of our own, this is an issue with which we are familiar. However, I implore you not to fulfill these needs at the ruin of a Native American sacred place and the subsequent violation of our right to worship.”