H.R. 6931 approves and ratifies a comprehensive water rights settlement with the Yavapai-Apache Nation in Arizona, resolving all tribal and federal claims to water in the Verde River Watershed and Colorado River. The bill authorizes construction of two major water infrastructure projects—the Cragin-Verde Pipeline and a drinking water treatment system capable of delivering up to 3 million gallons daily—and allocates approximately $1.24 billion in federal funding ($883.5 million for infrastructure and $155.7 million for water projects, wastewater improvements, operations, and watershed restoration). The legislation secures the Nation's water rights from both the C.C. Cragin Dam and the Central Arizona Project, prohibits permanent water sales, and requires the settlement to become effective by June 30, 2035, once all funding is deposited and infrastructure projects are completed. The bill also recognizes the cultural and religious significance of the Verde River to the Yavapai-Apache Nation while preserving their right to challenge future unauthorized water diversions in the watershed.
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