Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024

Bill 118 s 4505, also known as the Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The bill aims to settle water rights claims between the Ohkay Owingeh tribe and the federal government related to the Rio Chama river in New Mexico.

The bill outlines the terms of the settlement, which include the allocation of water rights to the tribe for agricultural, domestic, and municipal use. It also establishes a fund to support water infrastructure projects on tribal lands and provides for the transfer of certain federal lands to the tribe.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the establishment of a water management plan to ensure sustainable use of the Rio Chama river and protect the rights of all stakeholders. It also addresses the issue of water quality and pollution in the river, with measures to improve monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations. Overall, the Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024 aims to resolve longstanding disputes over water rights in the region and promote cooperation between the tribe and the federal government in managing this vital resource.