FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation will receive more than $550 million as part of a settlement with the federal government that officials say is the largest of its kind.
The tribe agreed earlier this year to settle the case involving mismanagement of its resources, but it was awaiting signatures from federal agencies.
Interior Secretary Sally Jewell visited Window Rock on Friday to mark the largest settlement of its kind for a single American Indian tribe.
The lawsuit alleged that the United States breached its fiduciary duty in managing, investing and accounting for revenue from farming, grazing, mineral development, timber harvesting and housing. The Navajo Nation originally sought $900 million when it filed the lawsuit 2006.
Navajo Nation Council Delegate Lorenzo Curley says public meetings will be held to ask Navajos how they think the money should be spent. The first is scheduled for next month.
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