Section 80004 of the IRA appropriates $12.5 million to the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation to provide near-term drought relief to Indian Tribes that are impacted by the operation of a Bureau of Reclamation water project. The Bureau of Reclamation oversees water resource management in the western U.S. through dams, reservoirs, hydroelectric power plants, and other projects. Section 80004 does not specify how a Tribe must be impacted by the Bureau project in order to qualify for drought relief funding, but lists drinking water shortages and loss of trust resources as examples of problems that the funding may be used to address. The appropriated funds are available until September 30, 2026.
Eligible Entities:
Environmental Justice Considerations:
Funds are dedicated to drought relief for Indian tribes.