The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding the designation and review of subsequent active management areas (AMAs) by the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). Under the current law, the Director can designate areas not included in an initial AMA as subsequent AMAs based on specific criteria. The bill introduces a requirement for the Director to periodically review areas included within a subsequent AMA to ensure they continue to meet the criteria for inclusion. If an area is found to no longer meet these criteria, the Director would have the authority to remove the subsequent AMA designation.

Additionally, the bill outlines new public hearing and notification requirements for the removal of a subsequent AMA designation. It mandates that the Director hold a public hearing to consider the removal, provide reasonable notice of the hearing, and include a map identifying the lands to be removed from the AMA. The bill also specifies that the Director must file an order designating the area as outside of an AMA if it is removed, and that all related findings and maps are to be made public records. These changes aim to enhance the oversight and management of groundwater resources in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-412, 45-413, 45-414, 45-411
House Engrossed Version: 45-412, 45-413, 45-414, 45-411