This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning the groundwater code. Key changes include the introduction of new definitions and requirements for the designation of irrigation non-expansion areas. Specifically, the bill adds provisions that allow the director to consider future changes in groundwater withdrawal rates when determining if there is a "reasonably safe supply for irrigation." It also establishes that a petition for designation must be accompanied by a numeric groundwater flow model and a hydrologic report, which must be approved by the director. Additionally, the bill clarifies the process for petition submission and the director's responsibilities in verifying compliance with the new requirements.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the judicial review process related to the director's decisions. It specifies that the director's findings and order are final for the purposes of limiting irrigated acres and are not subject to rehearing or review, but can be judicially reviewed after a specified period. The bill also introduces new stipulations regarding the irrigation of acres in areas proposed for designation, including provisions for continued irrigation if a judicial review reverses the director's decision. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the management and regulation of groundwater resources in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-114, 45-432, 45-433, 45-434, 45-435, 45-436, 45-476.01, 41-1092.09, 41-1092.08, 45-404, 45-414, 45-571, 45-576.03, 45-412, 16-168, 19-111