Supreme Court blocks Rio Grande water deal between Texas and New Mexico

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the federal government must be involved in any water agreements between Texas and New Mexico concerning the Rio Grande.

Alejandra Martinez and Berenice Garcia report for The Texas Tribune.

In short:

• The Supreme Court's 5-4 decision mandates federal involvement in water management agreements between states.
• Texas and New Mexico's recent agreement excluded federal input, leading to the ruling.
• The decision affects water distribution from the Rio Grande, impacting international treaties and regional drought management.

Key quote:

"We cannot now allow Texas and New Mexico to leave the United States up the river without a paddle."

— Majority opinion of the U.S. Supreme Court

Why this matters:

The ruling underscores the complexity of water management in drought-prone regions and highlights the federal government's role in resolving interstate water disputes. The decision could influence future negotiations and water policies amid increasing water scarcity.