Article Summary –
Legislation has been introduced in Arizona that would authorize a water rights settlement with three Native American tribes, with a total cost of $5 billion. The settlement, which has been approved by all three tribes, would guarantee access to over 56,000 acre-feet of Colorado River water and specific groundwater rights, while also establishing a homeland for the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe. The funding would also cover the costs of building and maintaining water development and delivery projects, including a $1.75 billion distribution pipeline.
Arizona Congressional Legislation on Water Rights Settlement
A legislation authorizing a water rights settlement with three Native American tribes in the Southwest was introduced by Arizona’s congressional delegation on Monday. This step towards settling a long-standing dispute with the Navajo Nation, Hopi and San Juan Southern Paiute tribes marks a significant milestone and provides greater certainty for the arid region.
View related story: Interior Secretary Deb Haaland announces 16 Tribal Water Settlements Getting $1.7 Billion.
The proposed legislation is valued at $5 billion, making it the most expensive of any agreement approved by Congress.
Implications of the Legislation
This legislation would ratify a settlement agreement approved by the tribes in May. It guarantees the tribes over 56,000 acre-feet of Colorado River water rights, specific groundwater rights, and protections. Furthermore, it creates a homeland for the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe.
The legislation will allocate funds for constructing and maintaining water development projects, including a $1.75 billion distribution pipeline. This move strengthens the tribes’ sovereignty and fosters growth and prosperity through increased water infrastructure investment.
Reaction to the Legislation
Arizona’s Democratic U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva highlighted the urgency of fulfilling the federal government’s obligation to provide drinking water to the tribes, especially amidst the challenges of climate change and a multigenerational drought.
For the San Juan Southern Paiute, Tribal President Robbin Preston Jr. described the legislation as a life-changing opportunity, equating it to a new lease of life for his people.
Related: Proposed settlement in securing Colorado River water for 3 Native American tribes.
The negotiation process has been long, with the impact of the ongoing drought and the coronavirus pandemic being significant challenges that sparked the latest round of talks.
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