1. Congressional Outlook for Indian Water Rights Settlements
WSWC/NARF Symposium

2. Settlement Approval Challenges
Price tag skepticism
Bishop Process
Procedural Hurdles (e.g., OMB Approval)
Disparate Treatment of Indian and Non-Indian Water Settlements on HNR

3. Overcoming Challenges in Congress
Engagement with Indian country allies on Capitol Hill (Both Rep. and Dem.)
Cultivating New Champions (50+ new House Members every Congress)
Consistent Message Communication
Trust Obligations
History of Failure
Legal Exposure for Taxpayers (Breach of Trust Claims)
Historically Settlements = Net-Benefit for Taxpayers

4. Good Messengers Tribes (“Suit Up and Show Up” – Chairman Aguilar)
Governors’ Offices
Tribal Organizations (e.g. NARF, NCAI)

5. Infrastructure Package
Possible Vehicle
Opportunity to Advocate for Indian country to get fair share of federal infrastructure investment

6. Wrapping it All Up
Despite Challenging Environment in Congress, Settlement Approval is Possible
Will require persistence, good communication, and engagement with allies on Capitol Hill in both parties