To approve the settlement of the water rights claims of the Zuni Indian Tribe in Apache County, Arizona, and for other purposes.
Includes the provision of assistance for acquiring surface water rights and wetland restoration. Names the Tribe, the State of Arizona and specified state agencies, specified neighboring non-Indian communities, and specified water and power companies as parties to the agreement.
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to execute the Settlement Agreement and subsequent, mutually agreed upon amendments.
Establishes and authorizes appropriations to the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Development Fund to be allocated among specified activities, including the acquisition of water rights and restoration at the Zuni Heaven Reservation. Includes funds paid to the Tribe as required by the Settlement Agreement. Conditions Zuni expenditures from such Fund upon the approval of a tribal management plan and an expenditure plan.
Directs the Secretary to take title to specified lands in trust for the benefit of the Tribe, including lands to become part of the Reservation. Sets forth the status of such lands with regard to Federal and State water rights and ad valorem taxes.
Extinguishes all claims for water rights in Zuni lands.
Became Public Law No: 108-34.
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Resources.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Water and Power.
Executive Comment Requested from Interior.
Subcommittee Hearings Held.
Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.
Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.
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