Bill > HR635

This bill, known as the "WaterSMART Access for Tribes Act", amends the Omnibus Public Land Management Act to improve water management opportunities for Native American tribes. Specifically, the bill modifies existing grant provisions to allow the Secretary of the Interior to reduce or completely waive the non-Federal (tribal) share of funding for water infrastructure improvements and related activities. This waiver can be granted if the Secretary determines that requiring the tribal contribution would create a financial hardship for the tribe. The change is intended to make water conservation and efficiency grants more accessible to Native American tribes by removing potential financial barriers that might prevent tribes from participating in or completing water-related infrastructure projects. By allowing for flexible funding arrangements, the bill aims to support tribal water management efforts and infrastructure development.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/635/all-info