The bill SB1242 amends sections 45-554 and 49-1333 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, relating to water management and conservation. It introduces new provisions for the withdrawal and transportation of groundwater from the Harquahala irrigation non-expansion area by the state, political subdivisions, and public service corporations. The bill specifies the conditions under which groundwater may be withdrawn and transported, including the requirement for entities to demonstrate compliance with criteria using a hydrological study, install water measuring devices, and submit monthly reports on groundwater withdrawal and transportation. Additionally, the bill outlines eligible locations and purposes for the use of transported groundwater, including use by an eligible entity or the Arizona water banking authority, and in La Paz County for the entity's own use or for sale or lease to designated providers in active management areas.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the submission of an annual report detailing the volume of groundwater withdrawn and transported by eligible entities, as well as the end use or destination of the transported groundwater. It also allows eligible entities to apply for grants from the water conservation grant fund to distribute rebates for the installation of gray water systems. The bill includes technical and conforming changes and is set to become effective on the general effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1074, 45-576
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-1074, 45-576
House Engrossed Version: 49-1332, 49-1333
Chaptered Version: 45-554, 49-1333, 45-437, 45-559, 45-2491