Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025
This bill recognizes and settles certain water rights claims in New Mexico of the Navajo Nation. It also establishes and provides funding for a settlement trust fund.
Specifically, the bill authorizes, ratifies, and confirms a specified water rights settlement agreement entered into by the Navajo Nation, New Mexico, and others, thus satisfying claims to water rights in the Rio San José Stream System in New Mexico.
The bill establishes and provides funding for the Navajo Nation Rio San José Water Rights Settlement Trust Fund (and specified accounts) for purposes of carrying out this bill.
Additionally, the bill (1) specifies the water rights of the tribe; and (2) outlines waivers, releases, and retentions of claims by the tribe and the United States.
The bill also allows for additional service areas for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.
Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.