Bill targets tribal water access in Upper Colorado Basin
In committeeH.R. 8461Latest action
Sponsor: Jeff Hurd · Representative · CO
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Western Tribal Water Act of 2026
119th Congress
Topics: Family & community
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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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
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
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Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 23, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · Apr 23, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The 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.
Latest action: — 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.