Author: Arlyssa Becenti

The number, reported Tuesday, represents 83 new cases, down from a high of more than 200.

“The Navajo Nation is now engaged in large-scale testing and we are now testing at a greater rate than any other state in the country based on population,” stated Navajo President Jonathan Nez. “Without the weekend lockdowns that we’ve implemented based on advice from our health care experts, we would be seeing higher numbers.”

The legislation was approved 19-4 without the blessing of Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer, who had asked Council to table the legislation in favor of their own bill (0116-20), which had finally been introduced for the five-day comment period after a few days of being held up at legislative counsel.

For the first time this weekend, essential businesses, including stores, gas stations, restaurants, drive-thru food establishments, hay vendors, and other vendors, are ordered to cease all operations during the lockdown.