Yavapai News

Last week, Representative Eli Crane from Arizona reintroduced the Energy Opportunities for All Act. This legislation aims to nullify actions by the Biden administration that prevent American citizens from exercising rights over their lands and resources.

Previously, the House Committee on Natural Resources advanced the bill with bipartisan support. Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed his backing during a committee hearing. "I appreciate Rep. Eli Crane for introducing this piece of legislation," Nygren stated. "The Navajo Nation continues to be an energy-producing tribal Nation. I support the Navajo people having a say in how their land and minerals are developed. In this case, the Navajo allottees have an important right to have their voices heard."

Crane criticized the current administration's policies, saying, "Secretary Haaland and President Biden engaged in selective sovereignty driven by extremists with no concern for Navajo interests or the energy needs of all Americans." He added, "I’m proud to reintroduce this bill that would invalidate the Biden admin’s meddlesome ban. Together, with the Trump Administration, I’m confident we will be able to advance tribal interests, unleashing energy sovereignty and prosperity."

In June 2023, the Biden Administration issued a Public Land Order affecting approximately 336,404 acres of federal mineral estate around Chaco Canyon National Historical Park for 20 years. This order restricts private landowners and Navajo allottees from leasing minerals in this area.

The ban is expected to negatively impact both the Navajo Nation and American taxpayers by limiting tribal revenue and economic development while affecting energy production.

Chaco Canyon holds cultural and historical importance for local communities. The decision-making regarding its development should involve those with lawful sovereignty rather than federal officials imposing external agendas.

Former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland had previously criticized the Trump administration for not consulting Native Americans adequately on lease sales. However, under her tenure in the Biden Administration, there was a significant restriction on Native mineral rights without addressing concerns raised by the Navajo Nation.