The proposed bill would update current statutes by allowing the Cochise County and Graham County Boards of Supervisors to place a question on the 2026 general election ballot regarding the designation of portions of the San Simon Valley as irrigation non-expansion areas (INAs). This change would enable residents within the subbasin to vote on the matter, with all qualified electors eligible to participate. Additionally, the bill specifies that Cochise County will bear all election-related expenses. It also introduces procedural requirements for the election process, including voter residency verification and the responsibilities of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) in managing relevant data.

Moreover, the bill amends section 45-437 and adds a new section, 45-437.04, which revises definitions and requirements for irrigated land, modifies penalties for non-compliance with reporting, and establishes new groundwater withdrawal limits for subsequent INAs. It also sets guidelines for irrigation practices within the INA, such as limiting groundwater withdrawal to five acre-feet per acre per year and mandating the use of water measuring devices for certain users. Overall, these updates aim to enhance local governance over groundwater management in the San Simon Valley while addressing specific regional needs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 44-317
Senate Engrossed Version: 44-304.01, 44-317, 16-901
House Engrossed Version: 45-437, 45-437.04, 45-431, 45-172, 45-437.01, 45-437.02, 45-437.03, 45-432, 35-146, 35-147