The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to groundwater management in Arizona, specifically focusing on the Phoenix Active Management Area (AMA). It would require the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) to determine that the withdrawal of up to 10,000 acre-feet of water from wells in the Buckeye Waterlogged Area by a municipal provider is consistent with the management goals of the Phoenix AMA and is not considered excess water until December 31, 2034, or another date determined by the Director. This determination is aimed at ensuring that the water is sufficient for the proposed needs of the city or town for a minimum of 100 years.

Additionally, the bill would retroactively apply these provisions to January 1, 1989, and clarify that the water withdrawn for demonstrating an assured water supply for lands within an irrigation and water conservation district must meet specific criteria. The amendments would streamline the language in the current statutes while maintaining the essential requirements for water management in the Phoenix AMA.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-411.01
Senate Engrossed Version: 45-411.01