The Utah Senate joined the Utah House in approving a $33 million settlement for the Utah Navajo Trust Fund.

The deal provides $1 million to the trust this year; $5 million in 2011; $13.5 million in 2012 and $13.5 million in 2013. An estimated $4 million to $5 million. would go to the attorneys who filed a lawsuit against the state in 1992.

Gov. Gary Herbert (R) settled the case. Final approval is up to a federal judge.

In 1933, Congress created a trust for members of the Navajo Nation who live in San Juan County, Utah. The law requires the state to manage 37.5 percent of the royalties from oil and gas production on Navajo land.

Congress is now considering a bill to relieve Utah of its role in the trust. The Utah Dineh Corporation would serve as the new manager.

Get the Story:
Lawmakers OK Navajo trust fund settlement (The Salt Lake Tribune 3/11)
Utah Legislature approves $33 million settlement in Navajo trust fund case (The Deseret News 3/11)

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