House Bill 2123 proposes to amend Arizona Revised Statutes by adding a new provision that would prohibit the state or any political subdivision from requiring water measuring devices on wells located in certain basins or subbasins. These basins or subbasins must meet three criteria: they must contain a river system or source subject to a general adjudication of water rights where rights are not fully adjudicated, be located outside of an initial active management area (AMA), and be outside of areas where groundwater can be withdrawn and transported.

The bill also clarifies that this prohibition does not affect the terms and conditions of valid contracts or settlement agreements, nor does it impede the authority, actions, and remedies available to courts or special masters in general stream adjudications. The bill makes technical and conforming changes to existing law, which currently requires water measuring devices for nonexempt wells in AMAs and certain other areas, with exemptions for small-scale withdrawals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-604
House Engrossed Version: 45-604