The proposed bill aims to update the current statutes regarding assured water supply (AWS) in Arizona by introducing a new section, 45-576.11, which establishes criteria for AWS designations in active management areas. It would allow for an alternative AWS designation for individuals withdrawing groundwater and storing water recovered from outside the area of impact. The bill mandates that the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) must consider both groundwater and stored water as physically available under specific conditions for new AWS applicants. It also provides a formula for calculating the volume of groundwater and stored water for AWS designations and outlines requirements for modifying these designations.

Additionally, the bill prohibits the inclusion of additional groundwater sources withdrawn from an Active Management Area (AMA) in existing AWS designations that already include groundwater and stored water. It sets the initial designation term for AWS at up to 15 years, allows for expedited modifications, and requires applicants to demonstrate financial capability for constructing necessary water delivery and treatment facilities. Key terms related to the AWS process, such as "area of impact," "assured water supply," and "stored water," are defined to clarify the legal framework for water supply management in Arizona. The act is classified as an emergency measure, necessitating a two-thirds legislative vote for immediate effect upon the governor's signature.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-576.11
House Engrossed Version: 45-576.11