The Buzz: How the largest Indian water rights settlement in U.S. history aims to rectify historic wrongs
Considered the largest Indian Water Rights settlement in U.S. history, the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024 may right historic wrongs. In 1922, when governments allocated Colorado River waters, tribal nations were notably excluded from the conversation. After decades of disputes, this $5 billion act would build the necessary infrastructure for tribal nations, like the Navajo, to bring water to their people. … As it stands, nearly a third of Navajo households lack running water. This bill would fund a pipeline to divert Colorado River water to these areas in need. Additionally, until that infrastructure is built, the Navajo and Hopi tribes would be able to lease their water to non-tribal entities in Arizona.
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