WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) – Navajo President Ben Shelly has signed off on a bill to stiffen penalties for misdemeanor crimes on the reservation.

New jails and the confirmation of a handful of judges gave the tribe an opening to reconsider penalties. Lawmakers had eliminated or reduced penalties for nearly 30 offenses more than a decade ago because of a lack of detention facilities.

Shelly said Monday that public hearings demonstrated that Navajos want stronger sentencing provisions. Previously, Navajos could shoplift, abandon a child, receive stolen property or commit burglary and fraud without facing jail time or fines.

Some lawmakers had opposed the bill and questioned the cost of incarcerating people. They said the tribe needed to develop drug and rehabilitation programs, and mental health services that could help deter criminal activity.