So you raise an issue that I would like to finish off my question back to you, Secretary Newland.

So you raise an issue that I would like to finish off my question back to you, Secretary Newland.

I think we have recognized that when we are talking about any of these water projects, we have seen costs escalate considerably due to inflation.

Just recognizing that things around here don't necessarily move very quickly, it seems to me that if there were identified areas or maps that we are talking about, the process moves forward a little bit more quickly, rather than, it seems…

I think we have recognized that when we are talking about any of these water projects, we have seen costs escalate considerably due to inflation.

We have so much more to do here.

the tribe needs to be made whole. I think we are absolutely in agreement there.

These bills are important, as they address the complex tribal water and land issues.

when you are talking about something as basic as water, we know that we have room to improve

when you are talking about something as basic as water, we know that we have room to improve

the tribe needs to be made whole. I think we are absolutely in agreement there.

I believe we have an obligation to ensure that the voices of Native Americans are heard.

I believe we have an obligation to ensure that the voices of Native Americans are heard.

it is my favorite time of the week here in the U.S. Senate. I like to come down on a regular basis and talk about the Alaskan of the Week. The Alaskan of the Week can be someone who is doing something great for their local community, their…

These bills are important, as they address the complex tribal water and land issues.

To my friend and colleague from Rhode Island, I will gladly pass along your birthday greetings to Elverda. Thank you very much. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Rhode Island.

The worry that I have in the back of my head is that reclamation cost estimates or inflation could potentially force the settlement parties to come back to Congress for more funding to complete the project.

We need to ensure that the voices of Native communities are heard and respected.