The proposed bill would update current statutes by requiring the Director of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) to adopt new rules for the application of biosolids to agricultural lands, ensuring alignment with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. This includes stipulations regarding air quality, application conditions, and moisture content. The Arizona State Land Commissioner would be tasked with ensuring compliance among agricultural lessees and would be prohibited from denying the use of fertilizers, biosolids, or soil amendments unless a violation is identified by ADEQ. The bill also introduces new provisions that grant immunity to the Commissioner and ADEQ from liabilities related to biosolid use, provided they adhere to the new regulations.

Additionally, the bill mandates that agricultural lessees comply with local, state, and federal regulations concerning fertilizers and biosolids, and it requires them to provide permits upon request. It amends existing provisions to ensure consistency with federal standards and mandates the Director of Environmental Quality to assess agricultural operations affected by the new rules prior to their adoption. The bill also includes a definition of "biosolids," extends the timeline for the Agricultural Best Management Practices Committee, and repeals certain existing rules, indicating a temporary nature for some new regulations. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the management and application of biosolids in Arizona while ensuring compliance with federal standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 37-292, 49-255.03, 49-457, 49-468, 3-112, 49-426
Senate Engrossed Version: 37-292, 49-255.03, 49-457, 49-468, 3-112, 49-426