Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has announced progress on two legislative bills aimed at supporting Montana's tribal communities. These bills have successfully passed the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, marking a significant step towards becoming law.

The "Northern Montana Water Security Act" seeks to finalize the Fort Belknap Indian Community (FBIC) Water Settlement, which is the last of its kind in Montana. This act proposes $1.3 billion for infrastructure and economic development related to tribal water use. It also authorizes $300 million to complete restoration projects on the Milk River Project and Dodson South Canal, aiming to prevent litigation by confirming FBIC's senior water rights. Additionally, it includes $250 million for constructing a new wastewater treatment facility on the Blackfeet Reservation.

The second bill, titled "Crow Tribe Water Settlement Amendment Act," builds upon the 2009 Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act that allocated $460 million for a water system construction. The amendment aims to transition this settlement from project-based funding to fund-based support and extends authorization for hydropower development on the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam until 2030.

Senator Daines emphasized the importance of these bills: “These bills are critical in ensuring Montana’s tribes are supported with the resources they need, and I’m glad to see them pass out of committee. I’ll keep fighting with my colleagues every step of the way to get them across the finish line.”

Both pieces of legislation are now poised for further consideration as they advance through legislative channels.