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Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement: $745 Million for Infrastructure and Environment

This Act finalizes a historic agreement settling the water rights claims of the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo in New Mexico, ending years of litigation. In exchange for waiving past claims, the Pueblo receives $745 million in federal funds for developing water and irrigation infrastructure and environmental protection. Local communities, including the City of Española, will also receive state funding to improve their water systems, enhancing regional water security.
Key points
Water Stability: The settlement of water rights in the Rio Chama system resolves long-standing disputes, providing certainty for all water users in the region.
Public Investment: $745 million is allocated to a trust fund for the construction and modernization of water, irrigation, and wastewater infrastructure for the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo.
Local Benefits: The State of New Mexico will contribute over $130 million for water system improvements benefiting local communities, including the City of Española and traditional irrigation ditches (Acequias).
Environmental Protection: Funds are designated for the restoration and protection of the riparian forest (Bosque) along the Rio Chama river.
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Introduced
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Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_1323
Sponsor: Rep. Leger Fernandez, Teresa [D-NM-3]
Process start date: 2025-02-13
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Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_1323.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-02-13.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Water Stability: The settlement of water rights in the Rio Chama system resolves long-standing disputes, providing certainty for all water users in the region.
  • Public Investment: $745 million is allocated to a trust fund for the construction and modernization of water, irrigation, and wastewater infrastructure for the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo.
  • Local Benefits: The State of New Mexico will contribute over $130 million for water system improvements benefiting local communities, including the City of Española and traditional irrigation ditches (Acequias).
  • Environmental Protection: Funds are designated for the restoration and protection of the riparian forest (Bosque) along the Rio Chama river.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Leger Fernandez, Teresa [D-NM-3].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

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