The New Mexico Legislature's Indian Affairs Committee held a hearing on Wednesday to discuss the Department of Indian Affairs.

Benny Shendo Jr., the state's new Indian Affairs Secretary, said he is working to ensure money allocated for tribal projects is used. In the past, the funds reverted to the state budget.

Rep. Ray Begaye said the Navajo Nation has changed procedures to streamline the approval process for capital outlay projects. But he said the state needs to do a better job communicating with tribes.

Shendo, of Santo Domingo Pueblo, took office May 1. He was appointed by Gov. Bill Richardson (D).

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Indian Affairs head working to assure funding is spent (The Farmington Daily Times 5/27)