Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025

# Summary of HR 1323: Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025 **What the Bill Does:** This bill would settle a long-standing water rights dispute involving the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo in New Mexico. It officially recognizes and approves a water rights agreement that gives the pueblo specific rights to water from the Rio Chama Stream System. The bill also creates a dedicated trust fund with federal money to help the pueblo develop and maintain water infrastructure—such as systems to produce, treat, and deliver water. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, a Native American community in New Mexico.

It also impacts other parties involved in the original settlement agreement, including the State of New Mexico and potentially other water users in the Rio Chama region. Broadly, it addresses federal obligations to Native American tribes regarding their natural resources. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee (HR 1323 in the 119th Congress) and has not yet been voted on by the full House. It was sponsored by Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez, a Democrat from New Mexico.