The Gila River Indian Community of Arizona says the $10 million the tribe spent on lobbyists in Washington, D.C., was worth it.

The tribe hired Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld to lobby for passage of a water rights settlement. The bill was signed into law in 2005, guaranteeing the tribe a huge share of water and the ability to lease some if its rights to other communities.

Former Gov. Richard Narcia says the bill wouldn't have passed without the help of lobbyists. In total, the tribe spent $10.4 million before and immediately after the settlement became law.

Get the Story:
Tribe paid $10 mil to lobbyists (The Arizona Republic 7/30)

Gila River Settlement Bill:
S.437

Relevant Links:
Gila River Indian Community - http://www.gric.nsn.us
Gila River Indian Community economic development - http://www.gilariverdevelopment.com

Related Stories:
Arizona tribe celebrates landmark water deal (04/25)
Water deal helps tribe return to farming heritage (01/19)
Tribal water rights bill has benefits for cities (11/19)
Tribal water rights bill ready for Bush signature (11/18)
Senate passes Arizona tribal water rights deal (10/12)