The proposed bill would amend current statutes to allow a storer in the Phoenix Active Management Area (AMA) to recharge stormwater within a constructed underground storage facility, provided they comply with operational terms and applicable water quality permits. It introduces new provisions that require the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) to determine the quantity of stormwater recharged annually and credit the storer's replenishment account with 95% of the total volume. Additionally, it allows storers to use or transfer replenishment credits to offset their replenishment obligations within the same subbasin.

The bill also clarifies that replenishment credits will be treated as groundwater rather than stored water and stipulates that the storage of stormwater must not infringe on existing water rights. It defines "stormwater" and specifies that it does not include surface water, effluent, incidental recharge, or net natural recharge. Other technical changes include modifications to the language regarding water storage permits and the conditions under which they may be issued. Overall, the bill aims to enhance water management practices in Arizona by facilitating the use of stormwater for aquifer replenishment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-522
Senate Engrossed Version: 45-831.01, 45-837.01, 45-852.01, 45-854.01, 45-871.01
House Engrossed Version: 45-831.01, 45-837.01, 45-852.01, 45-854.01, 45-871.01