hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Settles water rights, funds water infrastructure for Yavapai-Apache Nation.
Senators Kelly and Gallego (AZ)
Introduced in Senate
This bill aims to fully resolve all water rights claims for the Yavapai-Apache Nation in Arizona, including historical and future claims. It authorizes the construction of a major water infrastructure project, the Tu nl[[nichoh Water Infrastructure Project, consisting of a pipeline and a drinking water system, and establishes significant federal trust funds for various water-related uses by the Nation. Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego of Arizona introduced this bill, which is currently in its initial stage in the Senate, awaiting committee consideration.
Introduced Jan 13, 2026
This bill, S. 3617, was introduced in the Senate on January 13, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs. For it to become law, it must pass through committee, be voted on and passed by the full Senate, then pass through the House of Representatives (potentially with its own committee process and vote), and finally be signed by the President. There are no known dates for future actions at this time.
If enacted, the Yavapai-Apache Nation will have their water rights in the Verde River Watershed and Colorado River permanently confirmed and held in federal trust. Federal funds totaling nearly $1.04 billion will be transferred to support the construction of a new water pipeline and drinking water system, and to establish various tribal trust funds for water management, wastewater, and watershed restoration projects in Arizona. Additionally, specific parcels of land currently held by the Nation will be officially taken into federal trust, expanding the Yavapai-Apache Reservation.
Supporters Say
It resolves long-standing water rights disputes, providing certainty and resources for tribal self-sufficiency and economic development.
Critics Say
It commits significant federal funds and involves complex water reallocations, potentially impacting other water users or taxpayers.
Supporters of this legislation would likely highlight its role in fulfilling federal trust responsibilities to Native American tribes by definitively settling water rights claims. They would emphasize the importance of the new water infrastructure for public health, economic growth, and the cultural preservation of the Yavapai-Apache Nation. Critics, if any, might raise concerns about the substantial federal investment required or potential impacts on other water users in the region, given the intricate nature of water allocation in the arid Southwest. However, the bill aims to balance these interests through a comprehensive settlement agreement.