Fort Belknap Indian Community Water Rights Settlement Act of 2023
This bill modifies and ratifies a specified water rights settlement agreement entered into by the United States, Montana, and the Fort Belknap Indian Community (i.e., the Gros Ventre and Assiniboine Tribes).
The bill requires the community's water rights to be held in trust for the benefit of the community and its allottees. The community must enact a tribal water code to regulate its water rights.
Additionally, the bill authorizes the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture (as applicable) to enter negotiations with Montana to exchange certain state lands for federal lands to be held in trust for the benefit of the community.
The bill also
(consideration: CR S4172)
Passed Senate with an amendment by Voice Vote. (text of amendment in the nature of a substitute: CR S4188-4198)
(text of amendment in the nature of a substitute: CR S4188-4198)
Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
Hearings held. Hearings printed: S.Hrg. 118-120.