The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to water withdrawal in the Phoenix Active Management Area (AMA) by requiring 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 is consistent with the management goals of the Phoenix AMA. Specifically, the bill clarifies that this water is not considered excess until December 31, 2034, or another date determined by the Director. Additionally, it stipulates that the water must be sufficient to meet the proposed water needs of a city or town for at least 100 years.

Furthermore, the bill retroactively applies to January 1, 1989, and modifies existing language to ensure that the withdrawal of water for demonstrating an assured water supply aligns with the management goals of the Phoenix AMA. The amendments also refine the definitions and requirements surrounding the water withdrawal process, ensuring clarity and consistency in the application of the groundwater code.

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