WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee approved bipartisan legislation that Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema introduced investing $161.8 million in military installations in Yuma.“America is stronger and safer thanks to Marine Corps Air Station Yuma and Yuma Proving Ground’s military and defense operations. I’m proud to secure these investments providing Yuma’s military community with the tools and resources necessary to keep our nation safe and secure,” said Sinema, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related AgenciesSinema’s appropriations bill provides $90 million for a water treatment plant at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma, $62 million for the Special Operations Forces Free Fall Advanced Training Complex at U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG), $3.8 million for transient barracks planning and design at MCAS Yuma, and $6 million for construction of a new Radar Operations and Maintenance Facility at YPG.
Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), alongside Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), introduced the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation ratifying and funding the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement that will resolve the Nation’s water rights claims, bring additional water supplies to the Verde Valley, and help keep the Verde River flowing. The Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act authorizes $1.039 billion to build and maintain essential water infrastructure, including the Cragin-Verde Pipeline and a Surface Water Drinking Plant. The settlement will provide the Yavapai-Apache Nation with confirmed rights to 4,610 acre-feet per year of water, promote water conservation, and protect the flow of the Verde River. Additionally, it includes a land exchange with the Forest Service to secure lands contiguous to the Middle Verde Reservation, enhancing community resilience and environmental stewardship. Kelly’s bill represents a significant step toward securing Arizona’s water future and providing much-needed water delivery systems for the Yavapai-Apache Nation and surrounding communities. The House version, H.R. 8949, was introduced by Representative David Schweikert (R-AZ-1) on July 8th, 2024, and is cosponsored by Representatives Debbie Lesko (R-AZ-8), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6), and Greg Stanton (D-AZ-4). “Securing water rights and providing reliable water supplies are essential for the future of Arizona,” said Kelly. “This settlement is a significant step toward ensuring the Yavapai-Apache Nation and surrounding communities have the resources they need to thrive, while also protecting the vital flow of the Verde River. I am proud to work with my colleagues to support this settlement and get it enacted into law.” “Our legislation provides critical support to strengthen the Yavapai-Apache Nation’s water future and ensures they have access to clean drinking water and efficient water infrastructure for generations to come,” said Sinema.“H.R. 8949 promotes growth for the Yavapai Apache Nation by delivering critical resources,” said Schweikert. “The bipartisan bill provides the means to construct infrastructure to water sources, and I’m proud to work with my colleagues on this important legislation.” “This legislation represents a long-awaited agreement, fortifying a strong partnership between the Yavapai-Apache Nation and the state of Arizona,” said Ciscomani. “This relationship will only benefit our communities as we continue to work towards a secure water future, and I’m proud to join my Arizona colleagues in this crucial effort.” “This landmark settlement honors our federal trust responsibility to the Yavapai-Apache Nation and protects the Verde River for generations to come,” said Stanton. “I’m grateful for the Tribal Council, Salt River Project, and many others that worked tirelessly over 50 years to negotiate this agreement, and I look forward to securing these critical investments in the Verde Valley’s water future.” “In Arizona, there are few things more important than water rights”, said Lesko. “I am pleased that our state congressional delegation has united in support of the Yavapai Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act to codify this agreement into law. This was a significant achievement for all parties involved.” Click here to read the bill text. Click here for a summary. See what Arizona leaders and stakeholders are saying about the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024:“The State of Arizona proudly supports the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement, which will bring increased water security and sustainability to the Verde Valley and help ensure every Arizonan has access to the water they need to thrive,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “My administration is committed to partnering with Tribes on all water resource matters, including settling outstanding water rights claims. The Yavapai-Apache have waited years for this day, and this legislation is proof of their steadfast efforts and advocacy.” “This is a critical milestone, not only for the Yavapai-Apache Nation, but also for the future of the Verde River,” said Chairwoman Tanya Lewis. “On behalf of the Tribal Leaders that have come before me, I want to thank Senator Mark Kelly and Senator Kyrsten Sinema for their deep commitment to addressing water issues in the State of Arizona and for their unwavering support for the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act.” Lewis continued, “We are proud to have finally reached this moment and appreciate how hard each of the settling parties worked to achieve this comprehensive water rights settlement that will provide water certainty for the Nation and support a healthy Verde River that is cherished by so many people in the Verde Valley and across the state.” “The City of Cottonwood was pleased to participate in the settlement negotiations with the Yavapai-Apache Nation and feel this settlement will be very good for the Verde River, the City of Cottonwood and for all of the other communities here in the Verde Valley”, said Tom Whitmer, Acting City Manager for the City of Cottonwood. “SRP appreciates Senator Kelly and the Arizona Congressional delegation’s efforts to introduce and pass legislation to approve this historic agreement,” said Leslie Meyers, Associate General Manager & Chief Water Resources and Services Executive at SRP. “As a result of many years of negotiations, the settlement secures the Yavapai-Apache Nation’s water rights while facilitating renewable water supplies and cooperative water stewardship opportunities in the Verde Valley.”
WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema, alongside Republican Senator John Cornyn (Texas), introduced the Special District Grant Accessibility Act – bipartisan legislation ensuring Arizona special districts have equal access federal financial assistance to improve community safety and delivery of essential services. U.S. Representatives Pat Fallon (R-Texas) and Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House.“Special districts provide important services to Arizona communities – including firefighting, public utilities, and infrastructure. Our bipartisan, bicameral legislation ensures Arizona special districts can more fairly access federal funds as other parts of the government,” said Sinema.“Special districts throughout Texas struggle to compete for federal grants that provide critical funds for transportation, infrastructure, and emergency services,” said Cornyn. “Recognizing these districts as local government entities would help boost access to federal funding opportunities, ensuring that smaller communities aren’t left behind.”“We are thankful for Senator Sinema’s continued leadership in introducing the Special District Grant Accessibility Act,” said Judy Begay, Chair of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors and District 4 Supervisor. “This bill will ensure that special districts, providers of critical infrastructure and services throughout Arizona, are included as eligible for federal grants. The bill provides a standard definition of ‘special district’ to foster consistency in reference and recognition across federal government programs intended for these essential units of local governments.”“We thank Senators Sinema and Cornyn for their leadership and commitment to equal access to federal support for special. Their continued efforts to aid America’s Fire Districts is vitally important as we have been previously excluded from all federal relief funding, when our communities needed us more than ever. Our agencies are on the front lines every day, running towards danger to keep our communities safe. As costs related to responding to fires and providing emergency medical care continue to rise, this creates additional strain to already tight budgets. With Senators Sinema and Cornyn’s assistance, we will be able to ensure our operations do not falter,” said Scott A Freitag, Fire Chief, Central Arizona Fire and Medical, Immediate Past President, Arizona Fire Chiefs Association.“The Arizona Special Districts Alliance applauds the bipartisan Special District Grant Accessibility Act for its establishment of a federal definition of ‘special district’,” said Sara Carroll, Arizona Special Districts Alliance Administrator. “Arizona’s special districts providing critical and essential services such as fire protection, drinking water, healthcare, irrigation, and more, have historically experienced higher barriers to access federally-sourced funding opportunities for local government services. The legislation would begin breaking down these barriers with the definition and setting our local special district governments on a more level playing field as other local units of government. Doing so will further special districts’ investment in essential services that millions of Arizonans rely on across urban, rural, and wildland urban interface communities. The Arizona Special Districts Alliance thanks Senator Sinema for her leadership and championship to fix this public policy issue.”“Arizona’s fire districts are integral to emergency response all across the state, but have had to fight harder for access to funding opportunities afforded to fellow governments,” said John Flynn, Arizona Fire Districts Association Executive Director. “The Special District Grant Accessibility Act is the solution to this problem, and will place Arizona’s districts providing a lifeline to millions on a more level playing field with fellow municipal agencies, and helping our districts deliver the best emergency services possible.”“I thank Senators Sinema and Cornyn for introducing this legislation,” said Fire Chief John S. Butler, Fairfax County, VA and International Association of Fire Chiefs President and Board Chair.“Across the nation, fire districts protect their communities from fires, medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other incidents. It is important that their unique status be recognized by Washington, so that they can benefit from federal policies and programs.”“On behalf of the many special park districts represented within the National Recreation and Park Association’s membership, we support the introduction of the Special District Grant Accessibility Act by Senators Sinema and Cornyn. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will provide a commonsense solution to ensure a level playing field for special district access to funding opportunities relative to local government entities that provide similar critical services for their communities. NRPA urges the swift passage of this bill in the Senate and applauds the House of Representatives for passing companion legislation led by Representatives Pat Fallon and Brittany Pettersen this spring,”said Kyle Simpson, Director of Government Affairs, National Recreation and Park Association.“The nation’s special fire, ambulance and emergency districts have long-been no stranger to the hardship of accessing federal funding for local government and emergency services, placing them at a disadvantaged compared to sister government agencies to access resources to provide quality services in their communities,” said Cole Arreola-Karr, National Association of Emergency and Fire Officials (NAEFO) Executive Director. “NAEFO applauds Senators Sinema and Cornyn for their bipartisan championship of the Special District Grant Accessibility Act, which will finally set fire, ambulance, and other special districts on a level playing field breakdown these barriers for the 6,000 districts providing emergency services to tens of millions of Americans every day.”“Public health mosquito control districts support the health, comfort, welfare, and prosperity of local residents and are vital parts of the nation’s public health infrastructure. Much of this important work has long been done through the activities of special districts formed to combat local and invasive disease-transmitting mosquitoes. This legislation will bolster our special district members ability to detect and combat these problems and protect the public. On behalf of our special district members, the AMCA fully endorses the Special Districts Grant Accessibility Act,” said Dr. Rui-De Xue, President of the American Mosquito Control Association.“The National Special Districts Coalition (NSDC) is grateful to Senators Sinema and Cornyn for their longstanding leadership on behalf of the nation’s special districts,” said Ann Terry, Chair of NSDC and Chief Executive Officer of the Special District Association of Colorado. “Special districts provide essential public services to millions of Americans, including fire protection and emergency services, clean water, public transit, hospital, parks and recreation, airport, natural resource conservation, and many more. The bipartisan Special District Grant Accessibility Act would codify in federal law a long-overdue, formal definition of special district and ensure that the more than 35,000 special districts nationwide are eligible to receive all appropriate forms of federal financial assistance. NSDC looks forward to working with Senators Sinema and Cornyn, as well as our special district partners in Arizona and Texas, to ensure that this critically important piece of legislation passes the Senate.”Special districts are a political subdivision of a state and deliver specialized services to a specific community that would otherwise not be provided. Sinema and Cornyn’s legislation builds on previous work in defining “special districts” under law to ensure these entities have equitable access to federal funding opportunities.Additionally, Sinema and Cornyn’s bipartisan and bicameral legislation directs the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance to federal agencies regarding treatment of special districts and report on agency compliance with published guidance.In Arizona, there are over 300 special districts, employing over 14,500 Arizonans, that provide essential services including firefighting, public utilities, and infrastructure. Special districts have struggled to access federal funds for infrastructure projects and community programs because the U.S. Census Bureau does not consider special districts to be a unit of government – leaving special districts unable to access federal funds as easily or fairly as other parts of government that provide the same services.
PHOENIX – Traffic fatalities in Arizona decreased slightly in 2023 but are still near all-time highs, according to the state’s annual report on motor vehicle crashes on all roads, including local streets.There were 1,307 traffic fatalities across the state last year, a decrease of 0.98% compared to 2022, according to the 2023 Arizona Motor Vehicle Crash Facts report. Figures show crashes associated with alcohol impairment and inappropriate speed or speeding continue to be leading causes of deaths and injuries, providing an urgent reminder for Arizonans to avoid engaging in unsafe driving behaviors.Fewer pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities occurred in 2023. Pedestrian fatalities fell by 12.3% and bicyclist fatalities were 10.2% lower than in 2022. Despite these improvements, the 1,307 traffic fatalities in 2023 is the second-highest annual fatality total ever recorded in Arizona and only slightly behind the 1,320 deaths recorded in 2022.The Arizona Department of Transportation produces the annual Motor Vehicle Crash Facts report, which is a compilation of traffic crash reports provided by law enforcement agencies around the state. The document reflects reported crash data for all Arizona roadways, including city streets, county roads, reservation roads and state highways.While the number of traffic fatalities were down by about 1% in 2023 compared to 2022, the total number of crashes on all of Arizona’s roadways was up 1.6%, 122,247 in 2023 compared to 120,356 in 2022.The statistics show that, like in previous years, crashes and fatalities are overwhelmingly driven by driver behavior, primarily involving speed, impairment, and failure to use seat belts.“Every fatality represents someone’s loved one,” ADOT Director Jennifer Toth said. “We need everyone using the roads to work together to reduce these preventable crashes, and we’re working with partners around the state on safety strategies to help meet ADOT’s vision of safely connecting people.”But ADOT, which maintains the state highway system, can’t do it alone. More traffic fatalities occurred on local roads (828) than on state highways (479), and urban areas saw nearly twice as many fatalities (853) as rural areas (454).Among factors cited, speed – determined by law enforcement to be unlawful or too fast for conditions – was reported in crashes resulting in 446 fatalities and 20,682 injuries during 2023. This accounted for 34.1% and 38.2% of the totals, respectively. During 2022, speed was a factor in 436 fatalities and 20,137 injuries.Alcohol-related fatalities have increased in each of the past four years. The 332 killed in alcohol-related crashes represent 25.4% of all traffic fatalities. Male drivers were involved in 72.7% of crashes where alcohol was involved. Drivers ages 25-34 accounted for 35.4% of alcohol-related fatal crashes. Most alcohol-related crashes occur on weekends and at night.“Everyone expects to come home when they leave their house,” said Jesse Torrez, Director of the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. “Speed, distracted driving along with helmet and seat belt usage are a conscious choice. All of these choices can save lives. We have to remind ourselves and others to take a moment and think about home.”
There were 258 motorcyclist fatalities in crashes during 2023, which is the highest figure in at least 20 years and an 11.2% increase from 232 during 2022. There are more motorcyclists than ever on Arizona’s roads. Since 2019, Arizona has seen a 33% increase in motorcycle registrations, going from 209,719 to 279,569.
Overall, failure to use a safety device, such as a seat belt or helmet, saw fewer fatalities and injuries in 2023 than 2022. In 2023, there were 361 fatalities and 3,239 injuries, while 2022 saw 376 fatalities and 3,301 injuries.
The report shows that at least 8,657 drivers involved in collisions during 2023 were engaged in “distracted driving behavior” and 62 of these distracted drivers were involved in fatal crashes. These figures are likely undercounts because drivers may not admit they were distracted or because a distracted driver died in a crash.
The 2023 Arizona Motor Vehicle Crash Facts report and reports for previous years are available at azdot.gov/CrashFacts.
PHOENIX – Traffic fatalities in Arizona decreased slightly in 2023 but are still near all-time highs, according to the state’s annual report on motor vehicle crashes on all roads, including local streets.There were 1,307 traffic fatalities across the state last year, a decrease of 0.98% compared to 2022, according to the 2023 Arizona Motor Vehicle Crash Facts report. Figures show crashes associated with alcohol impairment and inappropriate speed or speeding continue to be leading causes of deaths and injuries, providing an urgent reminder for Arizonans to avoid engaging in unsafe driving behaviors.Fewer pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities occurred in 2023. Pedestrian fatalities fell by 12.3% and bicyclist fatalities were 10.2% lower than in 2022. Despite these improvements, the 1,307 traffic fatalities in 2023 is the second-highest annual fatality total ever recorded in Arizona and only slightly behind the 1,320 deaths recorded in 2022.The Arizona Department of Transportation produces the annual Motor Vehicle Crash Facts report, which is a compilation of traffic crash reports provided by law enforcement agencies around the state. The document reflects reported crash data for all Arizona roadways, including city streets, county roads, reservation roads and state highways.While the number of traffic fatalities were down by about 1% in 2023 compared to 2022, the total number of crashes on all of Arizona’s roadways was up 1.6%, 122,247 in 2023 compared to 120,356 in 2022.The statistics show that, like in previous years, crashes and fatalities are overwhelmingly driven by driver behavior, primarily involving speed, impairment, and failure to use seat belts.“Every fatality represents someone’s loved one,” ADOT Director Jennifer Toth said. “We need everyone using the roads to work together to reduce these preventable crashes, and we’re working with partners around the state on safety strategies to help meet ADOT’s vision of safely connecting people.”But ADOT, which maintains the state highway system, can’t do it alone. More traffic fatalities occurred on local roads (828) than on state highways (479), and urban areas saw nearly twice as many fatalities (853) as rural areas (454).Among factors cited, speed – determined by law enforcement to be unlawful or too fast for conditions – was reported in crashes resulting in 446 fatalities and 20,682 injuries during 2023. This accounted for 34.1% and 38.2% of the totals, respectively. During 2022, speed was a factor in 436 fatalities and 20,137 injuries.Alcohol-related fatalities have increased in each of the past four years. The 332 killed in alcohol-related crashes represent 25.4% of all traffic fatalities. Male drivers were involved in 72.7% of crashes where alcohol was involved. Drivers ages 25-34 accounted for 35.4% of alcohol-related fatal crashes. Most alcohol-related crashes occur on weekends and at night.“Everyone expects to come home when they leave their house,” said Jesse Torrez, Director of the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. “Speed, distracted driving along with helmet and seat belt usage are a conscious choice. All of these choices can save lives. We have to remind ourselves and others to take a moment and think about home.”
There were 258 motorcyclist fatalities in crashes during 2023, which is the highest figure in at least 20 years and an 11.2% increase from 232 during 2022. There are more motorcyclists than ever on Arizona’s roads. Since 2019, Arizona has seen a 33% increase in motorcycle registrations, going from 209,719 to 279,569.
Overall, failure to use a safety device, such as a seat belt or helmet, saw fewer fatalities and injuries in 2023 than 2022. In 2023, there were 361 fatalities and 3,239 injuries, while 2022 saw 376 fatalities and 3,301 injuries.
The report shows that at least 8,657 drivers involved in collisions during 2023 were engaged in “distracted driving behavior” and 62 of these distracted drivers were involved in fatal crashes. These figures are likely undercounts because drivers may not admit they were distracted or because a distracted driver died in a crash.
The 2023 Arizona Motor Vehicle Crash Facts report and reports for previous years are available at azdot.gov/CrashFacts.
WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema, alongside Republican Senator John Cornyn (Texas), introduced the Special District Grant Accessibility Act – bipartisan legislation ensuring Arizona special districts have equal access federal financial assistance to improve community safety and delivery of essential services. U.S. Representatives Pat Fallon (R-Texas) and Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House.“Special districts provide important services to Arizona communities – including firefighting, public utilities, and infrastructure. Our bipartisan, bicameral legislation ensures Arizona special districts can more fairly access federal funds as other parts of the government,” said Sinema.“Special districts throughout Texas struggle to compete for federal grants that provide critical funds for transportation, infrastructure, and emergency services,” said Cornyn. “Recognizing these districts as local government entities would help boost access to federal funding opportunities, ensuring that smaller communities aren’t left behind.”“We are thankful for Senator Sinema’s continued leadership in introducing the Special District Grant Accessibility Act,” said Judy Begay, Chair of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors and District 4 Supervisor. “This bill will ensure that special districts, providers of critical infrastructure and services throughout Arizona, are included as eligible for federal grants. The bill provides a standard definition of ‘special district’ to foster consistency in reference and recognition across federal government programs intended for these essential units of local governments.”“We thank Senators Sinema and Cornyn for their leadership and commitment to equal access to federal support for special. Their continued efforts to aid America’s Fire Districts is vitally important as we have been previously excluded from all federal relief funding, when our communities needed us more than ever. Our agencies are on the front lines every day, running towards danger to keep our communities safe. As costs related to responding to fires and providing emergency medical care continue to rise, this creates additional strain to already tight budgets. With Senators Sinema and Cornyn’s assistance, we will be able to ensure our operations do not falter,” said Scott A Freitag, Fire Chief, Central Arizona Fire and Medical, Immediate Past President, Arizona Fire Chiefs Association.“The Arizona Special Districts Alliance applauds the bipartisan Special District Grant Accessibility Act for its establishment of a federal definition of ‘special district’,” said Sara Carroll, Arizona Special Districts Alliance Administrator. “Arizona’s special districts providing critical and essential services such as fire protection, drinking water, healthcare, irrigation, and more, have historically experienced higher barriers to access federally-sourced funding opportunities for local government services. The legislation would begin breaking down these barriers with the definition and setting our local special district governments on a more level playing field as other local units of government. Doing so will further special districts’ investment in essential services that millions of Arizonans rely on across urban, rural, and wildland urban interface communities. The Arizona Special Districts Alliance thanks Senator Sinema for her leadership and championship to fix this public policy issue.”“Arizona’s fire districts are integral to emergency response all across the state, but have had to fight harder for access to funding opportunities afforded to fellow governments,” said John Flynn, Arizona Fire Districts Association Executive Director. “The Special District Grant Accessibility Act is the solution to this problem, and will place Arizona’s districts providing a lifeline to millions on a more level playing field with fellow municipal agencies, and helping our districts deliver the best emergency services possible.”“I thank Senators Sinema and Cornyn for introducing this legislation,” said Fire Chief John S. Butler, Fairfax County, VA and International Association of Fire Chiefs President and Board Chair.“Across the nation, fire districts protect their communities from fires, medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other incidents. It is important that their unique status be recognized by Washington, so that they can benefit from federal policies and programs.”“On behalf of the many special park districts represented within the National Recreation and Park Association’s membership, we support the introduction of the Special District Grant Accessibility Act by Senators Sinema and Cornyn. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will provide a commonsense solution to ensure a level playing field for special district access to funding opportunities relative to local government entities that provide similar critical services for their communities. NRPA urges the swift passage of this bill in the Senate and applauds the House of Representatives for passing companion legislation led by Representatives Pat Fallon and Brittany Pettersen this spring,”said Kyle Simpson, Director of Government Affairs, National Recreation and Park Association.“The nation’s special fire, ambulance and emergency districts have long-been no stranger to the hardship of accessing federal funding for local government and emergency services, placing them at a disadvantaged compared to sister government agencies to access resources to provide quality services in their communities,” said Cole Arreola-Karr, National Association of Emergency and Fire Officials (NAEFO) Executive Director. “NAEFO applauds Senators Sinema and Cornyn for their bipartisan championship of the Special District Grant Accessibility Act, which will finally set fire, ambulance, and other special districts on a level playing field breakdown these barriers for the 6,000 districts providing emergency services to tens of millions of Americans every day.”“Public health mosquito control districts support the health, comfort, welfare, and prosperity of local residents and are vital parts of the nation’s public health infrastructure. Much of this important work has long been done through the activities of special districts formed to combat local and invasive disease-transmitting mosquitoes. This legislation will bolster our special district members ability to detect and combat these problems and protect the public. On behalf of our special district members, the AMCA fully endorses the Special Districts Grant Accessibility Act,” said Dr. Rui-De Xue, President of the American Mosquito Control Association.“The National Special Districts Coalition (NSDC) is grateful to Senators Sinema and Cornyn for their longstanding leadership on behalf of the nation’s special districts,” said Ann Terry, Chair of NSDC and Chief Executive Officer of the Special District Association of Colorado. “Special districts provide essential public services to millions of Americans, including fire protection and emergency services, clean water, public transit, hospital, parks and recreation, airport, natural resource conservation, and many more. The bipartisan Special District Grant Accessibility Act would codify in federal law a long-overdue, formal definition of special district and ensure that the more than 35,000 special districts nationwide are eligible to receive all appropriate forms of federal financial assistance. NSDC looks forward to working with Senators Sinema and Cornyn, as well as our special district partners in Arizona and Texas, to ensure that this critically important piece of legislation passes the Senate.”Special districts are a political subdivision of a state and deliver specialized services to a specific community that would otherwise not be provided. Sinema and Cornyn’s legislation builds on previous work in defining “special districts” under law to ensure these entities have equitable access to federal funding opportunities.Additionally, Sinema and Cornyn’s bipartisan and bicameral legislation directs the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance to federal agencies regarding treatment of special districts and report on agency compliance with published guidance.In Arizona, there are over 300 special districts, employing over 14,500 Arizonans, that provide essential services including firefighting, public utilities, and infrastructure. Special districts have struggled to access federal funds for infrastructure projects and community programs because the U.S. Census Bureau does not consider special districts to be a unit of government – leaving special districts unable to access federal funds as easily or fairly as other parts of government that provide the same services.
Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), alongside Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), introduced the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation ratifying and funding the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement that will resolve the Nation’s water rights claims, bring additional water supplies to the Verde Valley, and help keep the Verde River flowing. The Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act authorizes $1.039 billion to build and maintain essential water infrastructure, including the Cragin-Verde Pipeline and a Surface Water Drinking Plant. The settlement will provide the Yavapai-Apache Nation with confirmed rights to 4,610 acre-feet per year of water, promote water conservation, and protect the flow of the Verde River. Additionally, it includes a land exchange with the Forest Service to secure lands contiguous to the Middle Verde Reservation, enhancing community resilience and environmental stewardship. Kelly’s bill represents a significant step toward securing Arizona’s water future and providing much-needed water delivery systems for the Yavapai-Apache Nation and surrounding communities. The House version, H.R. 8949, was introduced by Representative David Schweikert (R-AZ-1) on July 8th, 2024, and is cosponsored by Representatives Debbie Lesko (R-AZ-8), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6), and Greg Stanton (D-AZ-4). “Securing water rights and providing reliable water supplies are essential for the future of Arizona,” said Kelly. “This settlement is a significant step toward ensuring the Yavapai-Apache Nation and surrounding communities have the resources they need to thrive, while also protecting the vital flow of the Verde River. I am proud to work with my colleagues to support this settlement and get it enacted into law.” “Our legislation provides critical support to strengthen the Yavapai-Apache Nation’s water future and ensures they have access to clean drinking water and efficient water infrastructure for generations to come,” said Sinema.“H.R. 8949 promotes growth for the Yavapai Apache Nation by delivering critical resources,” said Schweikert. “The bipartisan bill provides the means to construct infrastructure to water sources, and I’m proud to work with my colleagues on this important legislation.” “This legislation represents a long-awaited agreement, fortifying a strong partnership between the Yavapai-Apache Nation and the state of Arizona,” said Ciscomani. “This relationship will only benefit our communities as we continue to work towards a secure water future, and I’m proud to join my Arizona colleagues in this crucial effort.” “This landmark settlement honors our federal trust responsibility to the Yavapai-Apache Nation and protects the Verde River for generations to come,” said Stanton. “I’m grateful for the Tribal Council, Salt River Project, and many others that worked tirelessly over 50 years to negotiate this agreement, and I look forward to securing these critical investments in the Verde Valley’s water future.” “In Arizona, there are few things more important than water rights”, said Lesko. “I am pleased that our state congressional delegation has united in support of the Yavapai Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act to codify this agreement into law. This was a significant achievement for all parties involved.” Click here to read the bill text. Click here for a summary. See what Arizona leaders and stakeholders are saying about the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024:“The State of Arizona proudly supports the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement, which will bring increased water security and sustainability to the Verde Valley and help ensure every Arizonan has access to the water they need to thrive,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “My administration is committed to partnering with Tribes on all water resource matters, including settling outstanding water rights claims. The Yavapai-Apache have waited years for this day, and this legislation is proof of their steadfast efforts and advocacy.” “This is a critical milestone, not only for the Yavapai-Apache Nation, but also for the future of the Verde River,” said Chairwoman Tanya Lewis. “On behalf of the Tribal Leaders that have come before me, I want to thank Senator Mark Kelly and Senator Kyrsten Sinema for their deep commitment to addressing water issues in the State of Arizona and for their unwavering support for the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act.” Lewis continued, “We are proud to have finally reached this moment and appreciate how hard each of the settling parties worked to achieve this comprehensive water rights settlement that will provide water certainty for the Nation and support a healthy Verde River that is cherished by so many people in the Verde Valley and across the state.” “The City of Cottonwood was pleased to participate in the settlement negotiations with the Yavapai-Apache Nation and feel this settlement will be very good for the Verde River, the City of Cottonwood and for all of the other communities here in the Verde Valley”, said Tom Whitmer, Acting City Manager for the City of Cottonwood. “SRP appreciates Senator Kelly and the Arizona Congressional delegation’s efforts to introduce and pass legislation to approve this historic agreement,” said Leslie Meyers, Associate General Manager & Chief Water Resources and Services Executive at SRP. “As a result of many years of negotiations, the settlement secures the Yavapai-Apache Nation’s water rights while facilitating renewable water supplies and cooperative water stewardship opportunities in the Verde Valley.”
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee approved bipartisan legislation that Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema introduced investing $161.8 million in military installations in Yuma.“America is stronger and safer thanks to Marine Corps Air Station Yuma and Yuma Proving Ground’s military and defense operations. I’m proud to secure these investments providing Yuma’s military community with the tools and resources necessary to keep our nation safe and secure,” said Sinema, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related AgenciesSinema’s appropriations bill provides $90 million for a water treatment plant at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma, $62 million for the Special Operations Forces Free Fall Advanced Training Complex at U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG), $3.8 million for transient barracks planning and design at MCAS Yuma, and $6 million for construction of a new Radar Operations and Maintenance Facility at YPG.
PHOENIX – Improvement projects will require closures along stretches of Phoenix-area freeways, including Interstate 17 and Loop 101 (Price Freeway) this weekend (July 12-15). The Arizona Department of Transportation recommends drivers allow extra travel time and plan to use detour routes while the following freeway restrictions are in place:
Southbound I-17 closed at Jomax Road from 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday (July 15) for pavement improvement project, with traffic detouring on Jomax Road off- and on-ramps. Southbound I-17 also narrowed to one lane between Loop 303/Sonoran Desert Drive and Jomax Road. East- and westbound Jomax Road will be closed at I-17. Allow extra travel time and be prepared for merging traffic. Note: Please avoid detouring on streets east of I-17 that are designed for local traffic.
Northbound Loop 101 (Price Freeway) closed between Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) in Chandler and US 60 (Superstition Freeway) in Tempe from 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday (July 15) for a pavement improvement project. Detours: Consider using westbound I-10 and eastbound US 60 as an alternate freeway route to reach northbound Loop 101.
Schedules are subject to change due to inclement weather or other factors. ADOT plans and constructs new freeways, additional lanes and other improvements in the Phoenix area as part of the Regional Transportation Plan for the Maricopa County region. Most projects are funded in part by Proposition 400, a dedicated sales tax approved by Maricopa County voters in 2004.Real-time highway conditions are available on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, the az511 app or by calling 511.
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee approved bipartisan legislation that Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema introduced investing $148,876,000,000 in American defense, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and related agencies. This funding will be critical for American national security and veteran and servicemember quality of life.As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, Sinema secured $90 million for a water treatment plant at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma, $62 million for the Special Operations Forces Free Fall Advanced Training Complex at U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG), $3.8 million for transient barracks planning and design at MCAS Yuma, $6 million for minor construction of a new Radar Operations and Maintenance Facility at YPG, and $7 million to complete the main entry complex at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson. Sinema also included language supporting infrastructure investments at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base to facilitate the incoming power projection wing.“This bill represents bipartisan support for our servicemembers and veterans and their families. It enhances our military readiness and the quality of life for servicemembers and their families, and funds quality care and benefits for our nation’s veterans,” said Sinema, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veteran Affairs, and Related Agencies.For American military construction, Sinema’s legislation provides $19.3 billion for critical infrastructure requirements that support American servicemembers at home and abroad – including funding for airfield and shipyard improvements, training ranges, and hangars. The legislation funds troop and family housing, child development centers, schools, and other quality of life facilities. Sinema also worked to include funding that addresses PFAS contamination at Base Realignment and Closure installations. Sinema welcomed feedback from other Senators who have heard from military installations in their states about critical infrastructure requirements and, as a result, included over $1.3 billion in military construction projects in her legislation.For the VA, Sinema’s legislation allocates over $129 billion to provide health care for 9.2 million veterans and benefits to nearly 7 million veterans and their families. Sinema ensured her legislation enables the VA to hire additional claims processors to address the claims backlog – including claims resulting from expansions of eligibility related to toxic exposures and claims enabled under the Sinema-shaped PACT Act. Sinema also included a number of other policy priorities, including a longitudinal report on alternative therapies, innovations in wound treatment technologies, improving criteria for colorectal cancer screening, availability of nonaddictive opioid alternatives, funding for Neurology Centers of Excellence, and ensuring veterans have continued access to dialysis services. Funding all of these critical services will ensure American veterans receive the care and benefits they have earned through their service to our nation.For related agencies, Sinema’s legislation provides funding for the American Battle Monuments Commission, the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals, the Armed Forces Retirement Homes, and Arlington National Cemetery – including construction funding to ensure Arlington National Cemetery may continue to operate for decades to come.
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