H.R. 8461In committeeFamily & community
Bill targets tribal water access in Upper Colorado Basin
Data as of July 11, 2026
HR 8461 updates a federal water program to fund safe drinking water projects for western tribes, setting aside $60M/year for 2027–2028.45-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill updates a federal program that helps Native American tribes on reservations access safe drinking water. It requires that at least 10 funded projects be located in the Upper Colorado River Basin, which covers parts of Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and other western states.
Who does it affect?
Tribes living on reservations in drought-prone parts of the western United States are most directly affected. The bill specifically names the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe as having aging water infrastructure in need of repair.
Why does it matter?
Without updated infrastructure, tribes in the Upper Colorado River Basin may continue to lack reliable access to safe drinking water. The bill directs federal attention and funding toward a region where water needs have not been fully addressed.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- $60M/year allocated
- Covers FY 2027–2028
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee — You are here
- House vote
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
AI-drafted summary. Verify it against the official text before you act on it.
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.
Make the callSee how a call works
Official title
Western Tribal Water Act of 2026
- Introduced:
- April 23, 2026
- Latest action:
- April 23, 2026
Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.