Congress gave final approval on Tuesday to a bill to allow the tribes on the Fort Peck Reservation in Montana to lease their water to surrounding communities.

The bill authorizes the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes to enter into a lease or other arrangement as part of their water compact with the state. The tribes plan to sign a deal with the Dry Prairie Rural Water Association needs.

The bill now goes onto President Bush for his signature.

Get the Story:
Congress passes tribal water rights bill (The Billings Gazette 12/6)

Get the Bill:
S.1219 | H.R.2978

Relevant Links:
Fort Peck Tribes - http://www.fortpecktribes.org

Related Stories:
House passes Fort Peck Reservation water bill (5/17)