The people of the Navajo Nation and the greater Four Corners region have felt the weight of energy policy decisions made without fully considering the economic and social realities of our communities. That is why I want to thank the New Mexico legislature for recognizing these challenges and making the right decision to table Senate Bill 4.
This decision marks an opportunity — not just for the Navajo Nation, but for all communities impacted by the state’s evolving energy policies. While we all share the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring a cleaner future, we must also acknowledge the need for a balanced approach—one that fosters economic development, supports families, and respects the sovereignty of tribal nations.
The closure of the San Juan Generating Station under the Energy Transition Act (ETA) was a hard lesson for our region. While the act aimed to accelerate the state’s shift toward renewable energy, its impact on the Navajo people and the broader Four Corners economy was profound. Jobs were lost—both directly at the plant and the San Juan Mine, and indirectly in supporting industries. Tax revenues that once funded our schools and colleges disappeared. Electricity prices rose, and businesses like the Navajo Agricultural Products Industry (NAPI) struggled to afford the higher cost of power needed to run their operations.
These are not abstract consequences; they are real stories of families facing financial hardship, students losing educational opportunities, and businesses being forced to make tough choices. When policy changes happen too quickly, without adequate transition planning, the very people these policies are meant to help are the ones who suffer the most.
The ETA has already reduced New Mexico’s greenhouse gas emissions by 29%, with projections showing that the state is on track to reach a 32% reduction by 2030. While this progress is commendable, SB4 would have placed additional restrictions that could slow down innovation and economic recovery. Rather than imposing rigid limitations, we must continue to explore ways to balance environmental goals with economic sustainability. This includes looking at offsets and other market-based solutions that can drive emissions reductions without sacrificing jobs and economic growth.
The Navajo Nation has long been a leader in energy production. For decades, our land has provided power for homes and businesses across the Southwest, while also generating critical revenue for tribal government services. However, with the closure of three major power plants and five mines since 2003, we have seen firsthand what happens when energy transitions are not managed with care.
We are not opposed to change. The Navajo Nation is actively working to diversify its energy portfolio, investing in renewables while also ensuring that we do not leave workers and communities behind. But transition takes time. By tabling SB4, the legislature has demonstrated a willingness to engage in meaningful discussions with tribal governments, local businesses, and other stakeholders to create policies that work for everyone.
Now, we have an opportunity to build a better model—one that balances environmental stewardship with economic opportunity. Let’s move forward together, ensuring that future energy policies uplift, rather than undermine, the hardworking people of New Mexico and the Navajo Nation.
Thank you to the legislature for listening. Let’s continue this dialogue and find solutions that work for all of us.
Trujillo is a member of the Navajo Nation.