This bill proposes to amend the Arizona Revised Statutes by adding a new section that establishes a framework for identifying and addressing the needs of "burdened communities." Under the new provisions, the Department of Environmental Quality would be required to adopt and periodically update a list of these communities based on median household income data. Municipalities would then be tasked with designating a representative for each burdened community, ensuring that local voices are included in the permitting process for new facilities or expansions within these areas.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that permits for new or expanded facilities in burdened communities cannot be granted without a comprehensive environmental impact assessment, public hearings, and consideration of community support. The Department would have the authority to deny permits if the cumulative impacts pose an unreasonable risk to public health or the environment. Additional provisions include the ability for the Department to adopt rules for implementation and define key terms such as "burdened community" and "cumulative impacts," thereby enhancing regulatory oversight and community engagement in environmental decision-making.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-119