Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act

The Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act (H.R. 3254), introduced by Representative Ben Ray Luján, would protect the water rights of the Taos Pueblo, as provided in New Mexico v. Abeyta and New Mexico v. Arellano.  The bill would provide the Taos Pueblo with grants and technical assistance to construct, replace, or rehabilitate water infrastructure, to protect the environment associated with the Buffalo Pasture area, and to enhance watershed conditions.  It would also authorize the Pueblo to market its water rights and would establish in the Treasury a Taos Pueblo Water Development Fund.

The bill is an important step in protecting water resources, advancing the implementation of effective water management, and ensuring future access to water resources for all Northern New Mexico residents located in the Taos Pueblo.