H.R. 8949 (IH) – Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024
Summary:
H.R. 8949 is a bill introduced in the United States House of Representatives on November 8, 2024, by Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ). The bill aims to settle the water rights claims of the Yavapai-Apache Nation.
Background:
The Yavapai-Apache Nation is a federally recognized tribe with a reservation located in central Arizona. The tribe has long claimed water rights in the Verde River and its tributaries, dating back to their traditional use of the water for domestic, agricultural, and cultural purposes.
However, the tribe’s water rights have not been fully recognized or quantified, leading to ongoing disputes with the state of Arizona and other water users.
Key Provisions:
- Settlement Agreement: Ratifies a settlement agreement between the United States, the Yavapai-Apache Nation, and the state of Arizona.
- Water Rights Quantification: Establishes a process to quantify the tribe’s water rights, including a study to determine the tribe’s historic and present water use.
- Water Delivery Plan: Directs the Bureau of Indian Affairs to develop a plan for delivering the tribe’s water rights, including the construction of infrastructure and agreements with other water users.
- Environmental Protection: Requires the tribe to develop a water management plan that protects the environment and ensures the sustainability of the water resources.
- Funding: Authorizes appropriations for the settlement agreement, including funds for water infrastructure, water management, and environmental protection.
Benefits:
- Water Security: Provides the Yavapai-Apache Nation with a reliable and secure water supply for its current and future needs.
- Economic Development: Enables the tribe to develop its economy and improve the quality of life for its members through the use of water for agriculture, tourism, and other purposes.
- Improved Water Management: Establishes a framework for managing the water resources in the Verde River watershed that is equitable and sustainable for all users.
- Cultural Preservation: Protects the tribe’s cultural heritage and practices that are tied to the use of water.
Outlook:
H.R. 8949 is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. It has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources for consideration. The bill has received support from the Yavapai-Apache Nation and other stakeholders.
The passage of the bill would require the support of both the House and the Senate, as well as the signature of the President. The timeline for its consideration is uncertain, but it is likely to be a topic of debate and negotiation in the coming months.
H.R. 8949 (IH) – Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024
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