The proposed bill would update current statutes regarding assured water supply (AWS) in Arizona by introducing new provisions that create an alternative designation for individuals withdrawing groundwater and storing water recovered from outside the area of impact. Specifically, it would require the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) to consider groundwater and stored water as physically available for new AWS applicants under certain conditions. The bill also establishes a formula for calculating the volume of groundwater and stored water for AWS designations and outlines requirements for applicants seeking to modify their AWS designation to include stored water.

Additionally, the bill would prohibit the inclusion of additional groundwater sources from an Active Management Area (AMA) in existing AWS designations that already include groundwater and stored water. It sets an initial designation term of up to 15 years, allows for expedited modifications, and requires applicants to demonstrate financial capability for necessary infrastructure. New definitions for key terms such as "area of impact," "assured water supply," and "stored water" would be added to enhance clarity in the application process, ultimately aiming to improve the management and sustainability of water resources in Arizona.

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