Bill lets Crow Tribe take direct control of its water system funding

What does this do?

This bill updates a 2010 Crow Tribe water rights settlement law, replacing the federally built "MR&I System" with a Tribe-led approach to building, running, and repairing water infrastructure using a dedicated account. It also confirms the Tribe owns and controls these projects once built, with the federal government not responsible for future maintenance costs, and extends a deadline for the Tribe to receive Yellowtail Dam hydropower payments from 15 to 20 years.

Who does it affect?

The Crow Tribe of Montana is directly affected, as the bill changes how it receives and manages federal water infrastructure funds. The U.S. Department of the Interior is also affected, since it manages the related settlement funds and trust accounts.

Why does it matter?

The change shifts responsibility and control of water infrastructure from the federal government to the Tribe, altering long-term maintenance obligations. It may also modestly affect the federal budget by changing the timing of certain payments.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Federal funds shift to tribal control
• Payment deadline extended 15 to 20 years
• Modest federal budget effects