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Settlement of Water Rights and Infrastructure Investment in Northern Montana

This Act ratifies a water rights settlement for the Fort Belknap Indian Community, resolving long-standing legal claims and ensuring water supply stability. It authorizes significant federal funding to rehabilitate irrigation systems, improve drinking water supply, and upgrade wastewater infrastructure (including for the Blackfeet Tribe), enhancing living conditions and sanitary security.
Key points
Confirmation of Tribal water rights and allocation of 20,000 acre-feet per year of water storage from Lake Elwell.
Authorization of over $1 billion for irrigation projects, water and sewer systems, and settlement trust funds.
Transfer of state and federal lands to trust status as part of a comprehensive settlement requiring the waiver of legal claims against the U.S.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
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Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_241
Sponsor: Sen. Daines, Steve [R-MT]
Process start date: 2025-01-24
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Northern Montana Water Security Act of 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_S_241.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-01-24.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Confirmation of Tribal water rights and allocation of 20,000 acre-feet per year of water storage from Lake Elwell.
  • Authorization of over $1 billion for irrigation projects, water and sewer systems, and settlement trust funds.
  • Transfer of state and federal lands to trust status as part of a comprehensive settlement requiring the waiver of legal claims against the U.S.
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 Sen. Daines, Steve [R-MT].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Committee on Indian Affairs. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-19.

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Environment Public Investments Agriculture