Rep. Derrick Lente

A bill that would provide funding for tribes to establish early childhood programs with culturally relevant education has passed both chambers of the legislature.

Former Navajo President Peterson Zah died Tuesday in Fort Defiance, Arizona, after a lengthy illness. He was 85. KUNM has more on his life and how he changed the lives of his Navajo people.

Several bills were introduced at the beginning of the legislative session that centered around funding Native American education and cultural programs. And although they made it to the House floor, they likely won’t get a vote.

Within the New Mexico Voting Rights Act passed by the House of Representatives is the Native American Voting Rights Act, which addresses barriers in tribal communities by increasing access to early voting and providing options for people without traditional mailing addresses.

State lawmakers kicked off the 2021 New Mexico legislative session Tuesday, Jan. 19. KUNM’s Nash Jones spoke with James Barron, education reporter with…