The proposed bill would update 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 Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) would be required to consider groundwater and stored water as physically available under specific conditions for new AWS applicants. The bill also outlines a formula for calculating the volume of groundwater and stored water and sets an initial designation term of up to 15 years, with provisions for expedited modifications.

Additionally, the bill would prohibit the inclusion of additional groundwater sources from an Active Management Area (AMA) in AWS designations that already include groundwater and stored water. It introduces new definitions and requirements for applicants, such as demonstrating financial capability for necessary infrastructure and limiting extinguishment credits to the specific subdivision. The bill clarifies terms related to AWS and ensures that the director cannot include additional groundwater sources from AMAs in the designation process, aiming to enhance water resource management and sustainability in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-576.11