The proposed bill would update current statutes regarding irrigation grandfathered rights (IGR) in active management areas (AMAs) by introducing a new section (45-465.05) that allows landowners to permanently relinquish their IGRs in exchange for a physical availability exemption credit. This credit would permit the withdrawal and use of a specified volume of groundwater for non-irrigation purposes in designated AMAs, such as Phoenix, Tucson, and Pinal. The bill outlines the criteria for relinquishment, the application process for the credit, and the obligations for replenishing groundwater used under the exemption.

In addition to the new provisions, the bill amends existing sections (45-576 and 45-576.08) to clarify the conditions under which groundwater can be withdrawn without demonstrating physical availability, particularly for assured water supply applications. It also introduces new definitions and requirements for the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) director's responsibilities in issuing credits and determining replenishment obligations. The bill removes outdated language and establishes a timeline for the director's response to credit requests, thereby streamlining the process for landowners managing their water rights.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-562
House Engrossed Version: 45-465.05, 45-576, 45-576.08, 45-576.01, 41-1075, 45-114, 45-411.01, 45-561, 45-597, 45-598, 32-2101, 32-2181, 48-3772, 48-3774.01, 45-514, 45-515, 49-201, 45-497, 45-579, 45-576.02, 9-463.01, 11-823, 11-822