Navajo Nation Water Settlement: Rights and Infrastructure Funding in New Mexico.
This Act approves the settlement of the Navajo Nation's water rights claims in the Rio San José Stream System in New Mexico. It ensures stable water access for the Navajo Nation by establishing a trust fund of over $223 million for water infrastructure construction and maintenance, improving access to water on their lands. In exchange for these benefits, the Navajo Nation waives specific water rights claims in the region, concluding a legal dispute.
Key points
Water Infrastructure Funding: Establishment of the Navajo Trust Fund with over $223 million for constructing, upgrading, and maintaining water systems.
Recognition of Water Rights: The Act formally recognizes and protects the Navajo Nation's water rights in the Rio San José system, safeguarding them from loss due to non-use.
Waiver of Claims: The Navajo Nation waives specific claims against the United States and other settlement parties regarding water rights in the region.
Water Project Expansion: Authorization to expand the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project to deliver water to Navajo communities within the Rio San José Basin.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_8945
Sponsor: Rep. Leger Fernandez, Teresa [D-NM-3]
Process start date: 2024-07-08