The proposed bill would update current statutes by establishing a framework for the designation of Basin Management Areas (BMAs) in specific groundwater basins, including the Gila Bend, Hualapai Valley, and Willcox Groundwater Basins. It introduces a process for initiating BMA designations through petitions from registered voters or by the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) under certain conditions, such as land subsidence. The bill mandates the formation of BMA councils, outlines public meeting requirements, and specifies procedures for managing groundwater rights. Additionally, it repeals the existing Willcox Active Management Area (AMA) and replaces it with the Willcox BMA, terminating any irrigation non-expansion area (INA) designations in favor of BMA status.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new requirements for groundwater rights applications, including sworn statements and historical usage data, and establishes a framework for flexibility accounts to manage groundwater allocations. It specifies notification procedures for the conveyance and retirement of groundwater rights, ensuring that the Director of ADWR is informed of any changes. The bill also clarifies that regulations regarding BMAs do not preempt groundwater transportation and expands the definition of "eligible entity" to include BMA councils. Overall, these updates aim to enhance groundwater management, sustainability, and user accountability in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-2102
Senate Engrossed Version: 49-1270, 16-168, 19-111, 45-445.01, 45-445, 45-445.02, 45-445.03, 45-445.12, 45-445.04, 45-445.05, 45-445.06, 45-445.07, 45-445.08, 45-445.09, 45-445.10, 45-445.11, 45-445.13, 49-1271, 45-412