The proposed bill would amend current statutes by introducing a framework for establishing Temporary Non-Expansion Areas (TNAs) in regions not currently designated as Active Management Areas (AMAs) or Irrigation Non-Expansion Areas (INAs). It allows for the initiation of a TNA through a petition to the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR), requiring signatures from at least half of the irrigation users and 10% of registered voters within the groundwater basin or subbasin. The bill specifies detailed requirements for petition forms, signature verification, and public meetings to inform residents about the implications of establishing a TNA.

Furthermore, the bill would implement restrictions on groundwater use within TNAs, limiting irrigation to only those acres that were irrigated in the ten years prior to the petition initiation and capping groundwater withdrawals to historical usage levels. It would also prohibit the issuance of new drilling permits unless certain conditions are met. Upon establishing a TNA, the ADWR is mandated to review groundwater status and submit findings to state officials. These updates aim to enhance groundwater management and sustainability in areas currently lacking formal oversight, while ensuring community involvement in the decision-making process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-596, 16-168, 19-111, 45-445.01, 45-445.02, 45-445, 45-445.03, 45-834.01
House Engrossed Version: 45-596, 16-168, 19-111, 45-445.01, 45-445.02, 45-445, 45-445.03, 45-834.01