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Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025

3/6/2025, 12:03 PM

Summary of Bill S 563

Bill 119 s 563, also known as the "Ohkay Owingeh Water Rights Settlement Act," is a piece of legislation that aims to approve the settlement of water rights claims of the Ohkay Owingeh tribe in the Rio Chama Stream System. The bill also seeks to restore the Bosque on Pueblo Land in the State of New Mexico.

The settlement of water rights claims is a crucial issue for the Ohkay Owingeh tribe, as access to water is essential for their cultural and economic well-being. By approving this settlement, the bill aims to provide the tribe with the necessary resources to sustain their community and way of life.

Additionally, the restoration of the Bosque on Pueblo Land is an important environmental initiative that will help preserve the natural habitat and ecosystem in the area. This restoration effort will not only benefit the Ohkay Owingeh tribe but also the surrounding communities and wildlife. Overall, Bill 119 s 563 is a bipartisan effort to address the water rights claims of the Ohkay Owingeh tribe and promote environmental conservation in the State of New Mexico. It reflects a commitment to supporting Native American communities and protecting the natural resources of the region.

Congressional Summary of S 563

Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025

This bill recognizes and settles certain water rights claims in New Mexico of the pueblo of Ohkay Owingeh. 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 Ohkay Owingeh, New Mexico, and others, thus satisfying claims to water rights in the Rio Chama Stream System in New Mexico.

The bill establishes and provides funding for the Ohkay Owingeh Water Rights Settlement Trust Fund. This trust fund may only be used for five specified purposes, including for activities related to water production, treatment, or delivery infrastructure.

The bill also (1) specifies the water rights of the pueblo; and (2) outlines waivers, releases, and retentions of claims by the pueblo and the United States.

Current Status of Bill S 563

Bill S 563 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 13, 2025. Bill S 563 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on February 13, 2025.  Bill S 563's most recent activity was Committee on Indian Affairs. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably. as of March 5, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 563

Total Number of Sponsors
3
Democrat Sponsors
3
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
1
Democrat Cosponsors
1
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 563

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 563

A bill to approve the settlement of water rights claims of Ohkay Owingeh in the Rio Chama Stream System, to restore the Bosque on Pueblo Land in the State of New Mexico, and for other purposes.
A bill to approve the settlement of water rights claims of Ohkay Owingeh in the Rio Chama Stream System, to restore the Bosque on Pueblo Land in the State of New Mexico, and for other purposes.

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