qualifying entity
(5) Qualifying entity The term “qualifying entity” means an agency of a State or political subdivision of a State, a joint action or powers agency, a water users association, or an Indian Tribe or Tribal utility authority that— (A) as of the date of conveyance under this chapter, is the current operator of the eligible facility pursuant to a contract with Reclamation; and (B) as determined by the Secretary, has the capacity to continue to manage the eligible facility for the same purposes for which the property has been managed under the reclamation laws.