The proposed bill would significantly update Arizona's groundwater management statutes by introducing new definitions such as approved remedial action project and remedial groundwater, which would establish a framework for recovering contaminated sites. It would allow individuals using remedial groundwater to meet management goals for their active management area and permit the withdrawal of up to 65,000 acre-feet of this groundwater for approved projects. The Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) would be required to amend rules to ensure compliance with management goals by January 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill mandates that applicants for a certificate of assured water supply notify the ADWR of their intent to withdraw remedial groundwater and includes regulations for perfluoroalkyl substances to ensure compliance with maximum containment levels. It would repeal outdated laws and require the ADWR to accept applications for the remedial groundwater program within 90 days of enactment, streamlining groundwater management processes in Arizona. Overall, the bill aims to enhance groundwater management, particularly in remediation efforts, while ensuring adherence to environmental standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-561, 45-576.01, 45-581, 45-581.01, 45-581.02, 49-201, 45-802.01, 45-402, 45-564, 45-568, 45-463, 49-282.03, 45-576, 45-576.03, 45-858.01, 45-859.01, 45-860.01, 45-632