Legislative update a successful event
Over 120 people attended the Third Annual Legislative Update at Moenkopi Legacy Inn on May 13. The event, organized by Coconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler, attracted a diverse and highly-engaged audience that including chapter officials, council delegates, Navajo Nation division directors, community organizations and everyday concerned citizens.
A few of the hot-button issues discussed were: budget cut impacts on education and health services; unemployment; water scarcity; Navajo Generating Station; and Native Americans in the federal criminal justice system. A series of impassioned questions and comments were shared. State Representatives Tom Chabin and Albert Hale took note of the issues raised, along with many other elected officials in attendance.
Representatives Chabin and Hale strived to provide thorough and helpful responses to the questions posed although they were limited by time constraints. This year's event generated the highest attendance so far and had representation from over 20 chapters from across the state.
The morning started off with an update on the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) provided by Joe Engelken, Dawn Reich and Helen Souza of Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation (TCRHCC). The staff expressed the importance and urgency for current AHCCCS enrollees to ensure that their benefits do not expire. It was announced that potential applicants must apply before June 30. Souza was conscientious in communicating that her office is readily available to inform people about the changes to AHCCCS, explain what must be done to maintain eligibility and answer any questions. For more information you may contact a TCRHCC Patient Benefit Coordinator Assistant at: (928) 283-2126.
The presentation from TCRHCC was followed by an update from Rep. Tom Chabin who provided an overview of Arizona's fiscal year 2012 budget, which highlighted the million dollar reductions that affect the areas of education, health and public safety. Rep. Chabin cited the following results as ramifications of the massive cuts to K-12 education: increased class sizes; pay cuts for thousands of teachers; elimination of programs; and ultimately, more responsibility left in the hands of parents. For higher education institutions: layoffs, reductions in the number of classes offered, and tuition increases are all consequences that appear imminent.
Rep. Chabin also spent some time raising awareness about the issue of uranium mining around the Grand Canyon. He was adamant about his stance in favor of a freeze on uranium mining, which is still opposed by some members of the Arizona State Legislature.
Rep. Hale's update was last on the agenda and addressed a range of issues such as: redistricting; immigration; gun control; and the Tribal Law and Order Act. Rep. Hale stressed the importance of bringing unique perspectives to the attention of current legislators in order to shape policies that will be effective in addressing rural residents' concerns and wellbeing. Furthermore, his message reiterated the need for the Native American constituency to exercise their rights by voting.
The event came to a close after members of the audience had the opportunity to share their questions and comments. The key coordinators of the event look forward to another successful and informative event next year. Supervisor Fowler's office would like to extend a special thank you to Arbin Mitchell, Navajo Nation Division Director for Community Development, for facilitating the event as a moderator as well as the state legislators for their time and attendance.
For more information or requests for documents and reports shared during the event, please contact Lena Fowler's office at (928) 283-4518 or lscott@coconino.az.gov.
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