If this bill were to become law, it would update the definition of "county" in Arizona Revised Statutes section 49-371 to include counties that operate a regulated medium or large separate storm sewer system, in addition to those that operate a small municipal separate storm sewer system. This change is significant as it broadens the scope of counties that are subject to local stormwater quality programs, aligning with federal regulations under 40 Code of Federal Regulations.

The bill would remove the specific reference to "small" municipal separate storm sewer systems in the definition, thereby allowing for a more inclusive approach to stormwater management. The current language that applies the definition as if the small municipal separate storm sewer system discharged to a WOTUS protected surface water would remain unchanged, ensuring that the regulatory framework continues to address environmental protections effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-371
House Engrossed Version: 49-371
Chaptered Version: 49-371