The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding the use of groundwater in active management areas (AMAs) by expanding the classification of non-irrigation uses. Specifically, it would allow the use of groundwater not only for watering plants in containers but also for plants grown using hydroponics and wine grapes. This change is reflected in the insertion of new language that specifies these additional uses alongside the existing provisions.

Furthermore, the bill would modify existing regulations concerning the withdrawal of groundwater by holders of irrigation grandfathered rights (IGFR). It would permit these individuals to use groundwater for the newly included categories while maintaining the requirement that the total water usage does not exceed the irrigation water duty for the farm. The bill also includes provisions that prevent the registration of credits to the flexibility account if groundwater is used for all plants or wine grapes, and it mandates that the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources separate certificates for different uses upon request. Deletions in the current law would remove references specifically to "plants in containers," thereby broadening the scope of permissible uses.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-465.04
House Engrossed Version: 45-465.04