Government

Senate,
Legislative Branch

The Senate is composed of nine (9) members, elected from the two (2) Legislative Tribal Districts who are responsible with setting policies, creating government programs and committed working towards self-determination. The Vice President serves as Chair of the Senate.

Mark Villasenor

Chair of Senate

Lucia Alfaro

Secretary

Mary Acuna

Senator

Jesus Alvarez

Senator

Joseph Bodle

Senator

Crystal Jo Crowe

Senator

Cheryl Martin

Senator

Richard Ortega

Senator

Jorge Salazar Jr

Senator

Legislative

Standing Committees

Standing committees are comprised only of members of the Senate. They consider business falling within the category of matters over which they have been given jurisdiction.

Legislative

Responsible for the development of tribal laws relating to their Legislative authorities under the Constitution of the Fernandeño Tataviam.

Responsible for receiving, reviewing, and/or developing all proposed Legislation relating to the fiscal policy of the Fernandeño Tataviam. The Finance Committee shall ensure all branches, offices and departments are operating within approved fiscal policy.

Responsible for proposed legislation dealing with services to tribal citizens and employees of the Fernandeño Tataviam Tribe.

Responsible for proposed legislation pertaining to the acquisition, leasing, disposition, and management of real property of the Fernandeño Tataviam.

Responsible for proposed legislation pertaining to Environmental Protection, Historic Preservation, and Cultural Resources Management, and related issues.

Responsible for proposed Legislation pertaining to tribal education services, cultural learning activities and the Department.

Responsible for overseeing heritage cases of Fernandeño Tataviam Indian children that fall under the Indian Child and Welfare Act.

Responsible for proposed legislation pertaining to tribal health and wellness programs and services.