Official settlement agreement documents

Arizona Delegation Introduces $5 Billion Tribal Water Rights Legislation for Three Tribes

Jul 9, 2024, 08:59 PM

Members of Arizona's congressional delegation have introduced a $5 billion legislation to authorize a water rights settlement with three Native American tribes in the Southwest. The tribes involved are the Navajo Nation, the Hopi, and the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribes. This historic bill aims to secure water rights for these tribes, upholding their sovereignty and laying the path for their growth and prosperity. The legislation, known as the Northern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act (NAIWRSA), is expected to provide more certainty for the arid region and represents a significant step forward in resolving a decades-long challenge. The settlement includes Colorado River water and is the largest agreement enacted by Congress.