Today, on the floor of the Arizona Senate, Senator Steve Smith read a resolution he drafted recognizing the importance of the Navajo Generating Station (NGS) and Kayenta Mine and the significant impact of their closing considering that unless new agreements can soon be reached, NGS is scheduled to close by the end of 2019.

In order to further understand the impact, Senator Smith, along with Senators Borrelli, Burges, and Peshlakai and Representative Mark Finchem will be in Page, Arizona on Friday, April 28 to attend a public hearing featuring community members including local political, business, and school officials.

"The Navajo Generating Station plays an important role for all of Arizona, creating both electricity and a positive economic benefit," said Senator Smith. "I look forward to hearing from those who would be directly affected by the closing of the power plant and mine. I support the Navajo and Hopi tribes and Salt River Project in their efforts to reach a long-term, mutual agreement to this situation."

Constructed in 1969 and located on the Navajo Indian Reservation near Page, Arizona, the plant has been a driving economic force in the region. Approximately 3,100 jobs depend on the generating station and the Kayenta Mine Complex that powers its operation.