This bill seeks to amend current statutes concerning the formation and governance of county water authorities, specifically allowing La Paz County to establish such an authority irrespective of its population size, which is a departure from the existing law under A.R.S. § 45-2202. The new provisions will require resolutions from two or more eligible entities, including the La Paz County Board of Supervisors, to initiate the formation of the authority. Additionally, the bill exempts the La Paz County water authority from certain statutory requirements and introduces modifications to the governance structure, allowing for representation from entities involved in irrigable land within the Harquahala Irrigation Non-Expansion Area. Moreover, the bill enhances the operational framework of the county water authority by allowing it to contract for additional water supplies, apportion groundwater, and establish flexible membership and voting procedures. It also clarifies the authority's financial management practices, including the allocation of funds and the imposition of fees related to water delivery. These updates aim to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of water management in Arizona, particularly in relation to the unique needs of La Paz County and its water resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-2201, 45-2202, 45-2221, 45-2241, 45-2244, 45-2244.01, 45-2245, 45-2281, 45-2281.01, 45-2282, 45-402, 90-537
House Engrossed Version: 45-2201, 45-2202, 45-2206, 45-2221, 45-2241, 45-2244, 45-2245, 45-2281, 45-402, 90-537, 45-554, 45-437
Chaptered Version: 45-2201, 45-2202, 45-2206, 45-2221, 45-2241, 45-2244, 45-2245, 45-2281, 45-402, 90-537, 45-554, 45-437