arrow_back Back to App

Zuni Water Rights Settlement: Funding, Water Security, and Salt Lake Protection

This Act approves the settlement of water rights claims for the Zuni Tribe in New Mexico, resolving litigation. It secures water rights for the Tribe and establishes a Settlement Trust Fund of $685 million for water infrastructure development and resource management. Additionally, the legislation protects the Zuni Salt Lake and its surrounding areas by withdrawing federal land from exploitation, which is relevant for cultural and water resource preservation.
Key points
Water Rights Secured: The Zuni Tribe receives recognized water rights in the Zuni River Stream System, which are not subject to loss through non-use.
Development Funding: Establishment of a $685 million Trust Fund for the construction, repair, and maintenance of water infrastructure and water resource management.
Environmental and Cultural Protection: Withdrawal of approximately 92,364 acres of federal land around the Zuni Salt Lake from mining and leasing to protect water resources and cultural values.
Waiver of Claims: The Zuni Tribe waives specific claims against the U.S. and other parties related to water rights in exchange for the benefits provided by the settlement.
Land Transfer: Specific federal lands are transferred into trust for the benefit of the Zuni Tribe following the Enforceability Date.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_564
Sponsor: Sen. Heinrich, Martin [D-NM]
Process start date: 2025-02-13
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-3-pro-preview
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Zuni Indian Tribe 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_S_564.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-02-13.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Water Rights Secured: The Zuni Tribe receives recognized water rights in the Zuni River Stream System, which are not subject to loss through non-use.
  • Development Funding: Establishment of a $685 million Trust Fund for the construction, repair, and maintenance of water infrastructure and water resource management.
  • Environmental and Cultural Protection: Withdrawal of approximately 92,364 acres of federal land around the Zuni Salt Lake from mining and leasing to protect water resources and cultural values.
  • Waiver of Claims: The Zuni Tribe waives specific claims against the U.S. and other parties related to water rights in exchange for the benefits provided by the settlement.
  • Land Transfer: Specific federal lands are transferred into trust for the benefit of the Zuni Tribe following the Enforceability Date.
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. Heinrich, Martin [D-NM].

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 2025-12-31.

CATEGORIES

Environment Public Investments Courts and Law