Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly exercised his line item veto power on Wednesday to cut more than $2.7 million for a six month continuous feral livestock round-up.
“With the tight budget uncertainty that we face with federal budget cut backs, it is imperative that we utilize all funding with a definite plan.” Shelly stated in a memorandum addressed to Navajo Nation Council Speaker Johnny Naize.
The resolution intended to address the widespread feral horse problem but after meeting with the Department of Agriculture, Division of Natural Resources a plan needed to be developed with Navajo Nation Chapters, District Grazing Officials and Land Boards. Coordination with the Department of Agriculture will also help resolve this critical matter.
“There are a few chapter’s such as Tiis Tsoh Sikaad Chapter, that have annually conducted a round-up of feral horses in its local area. The Chapter has coordinated with the Navajo Rangers and Bureau of Indian Affairs to assist.” Shelly stated.
The local chapter’s grazing officials and Land Boards have the advantage of understanding and working with their communities as well as obtain chapter resolutions to support and follow through with livestock round ups.
The Navajo Nation Livestock and Foreign Animal Disease Response Act of 2006 provides requirements and procedures on livestock or equine roundup.
“This is the opportunity to re-evaluate this law to make sure if any revisions or clarifications are needed in order to provide the efficient vessel to accomplish the success of this matter.” President Shelly stated.
Another legislation sign on Wednesday President Shelly approved $16 million from the unreserved, undesignated fund balance for priorities listed in the three branch chief’s agreement.
The legislation provides $3 million will be designated for Navajo Head Start program, $1.5 million for solid waste management program, $43,000 for Air Transportation, $390,000 for Navajo Transit System and $1.5 million toward facility maintenance for administration building one.
Navajo Nation Chapters will receive more than $8 million, $225,000 Chinle Judicial District and $78,000 to Window Rock Judicial District.
The Navajo Nation Office of the Speaker will receive $600,000.