Why Is Alcohol Illegal On The Navajo Reservation?
According to a 2018 Navajo Nation Council release, the Navajo Nation prohibits the sale or consumption of alcohol, except at Class III gaming facilities. The release links alcohol to arrests for intoxication, domestic violence, assault and DUI. We found no official statement of the original reasons for the ban.
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We use your email only for this download.What the Navajo Nation says
A 2018 press release from the Navajo Nation Council states that the Navajo Nation prohibits the sale or consumption of alcohol, with the limited exception of Class III gaming facilities.
Harms cited
The release describes Legislation No. 0186-18, which says alcohol sale and consumption has contributed to arrests for public intoxication, domestic violence, assault and battery, driving under the influence and sexual assault. It reports 552 alcohol-related arrests in 2016 and 661 in 2017, and says police responded to over 88,500 calls involving intoxication.
A sponsor quoted in the release also links bootlegging to addiction, drug use and deaths.
Penalties
That legislation sought a mandatory jail term and fine for illegal alcohol sales; the delegate quoted mentioned $5,000 and 365 days in jail. The release reports a committee vote, and we did not confirm whether it became law, so check the current Navajo Nation Code.
Before you travel
- Laws on tribal land can differ from the surrounding state.
- Check with Navajo Nation authorities before bringing alcohol.
More: laws and travel. Not legal advice.
People also ask
Is alcohol allowed on the Navajo Nation?
A 2018 Navajo Nation Council release says the Nation prohibits alcohol sale or consumption, with a limited exception for Class III gaming facilities.
What are the penalties for selling alcohol there?
A 2018 bill sought mandatory jail and a fine; we did not confirm its final status, so check the current code.
Can I bring alcohol onto the Navajo Nation?
Rules there differ from nearby states. Confirm with Navajo Nation authorities before you travel.
Sources
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