Water Rights Protection Act of 2023

The Water Rights Protection Act of 2023 requires federal agencies (like the Departments of Agriculture and Interior) to respect state authority over water rights in all federal actions. It prohibits federal agencies from imposing conditions that conflict with state water law, such as forcing water rights transfers to the U.S. government, altering state-defined terms for beneficial use, or restricting water rights beyond state limits. The bill directly affects states, water users (including tribes and agricultural entities), and federal land management decisions. It ensures federal permits, leases, or approvals align with state water law without adding extra restrictions.