Technical Correction to the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025
Summary
This bill, the "Technical Correction to the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025," addresses a technical error in the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009. Specifically, it concerns the water rights settlement for the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation. The correction authorizes the appropriation of $5,124,902.12 to the Secretary for deposit into the Development Fund to adjust interest payments.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage will ensure the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes receive the correct amount of funds as intended by the original 2009 Act. This will rectify a previous oversight in the calculation of interest payments. Ultimately, this correction aims to fulfill the US government's commitment to the water rights settlement with the Tribes.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes receive the full financial benefits of the water rights settlement.
- Corrects a technical error in previous legislation, promoting accuracy and accountability.
- Honors the federal government's commitments to Native American tribes.
- May improve the relationship between the federal government and the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes.
- Provides financial resources for the Development Fund, potentially supporting tribal development projects.
Potential Disadvantages
- The appropriation of $5,124,902.12 adds to the federal budget deficit.
- The bill primarily benefits a specific tribe, which may raise questions of equity from other tribes.
- The impact on the broader American population is minimal.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in the distribution of funds.
- Limited transparency regarding the specific projects funded by the Development Fund.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to appropriate funds for the general welfare and to regulate commerce with Native American tribes. The bill also reflects the federal government's treaty obligations and responsibilities towards Native American tribes, which have been recognized through various Supreme Court decisions. The correction of a technical error demonstrates a commitment to fulfilling legal obligations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).