• The deals would secure water rights for multiple Arizona tribes.
• Total federal cost is estimated at around $6 billion.
• Sen. Mark Kelly introduced the legislation earlier this year.

December 27, 2024 — With Congress out on holiday recess, two significant water rights settlements for Arizona tribes hang in the balance. Although Gov. Katie Hobbs signed these agreements last month on behalf of the state, both still await approval by federal lawmakers.

Sen. Mark Kelly sponsored legislation covering the Northeastern Arizona Indian and Yavapai-Apache Nation settlements. Kelly would not tell Arizona’s Public Radio KJZZ if votes in the House or Senate will occur before the current session concludes. Should the bills stall, he intends to reintroduce them next year when Republicans assume control of both chambers.  “[W]e’re trying to get this through the process,” Kelly said. “It does take longer than we would like. So, just know that, we’re actively engaged with all the partners on this in Arizona, here in Washington. But my hope is that we get this done sooner rather than later and provide these critical resources to these tribes.”

If passed, the pair of settlements would resolve long-standing water claims for the Navajo Nation, Hopi, San Juan Southern Paiute, and Yavapai-Apache tribes. The federal government’s share is expected to run about $6 billion, underscoring the scale and significance of these deals.

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