This bill proposes significant updates to current groundwater management statutes by establishing a new process for designating Basin Management Areas (BMAs) in specific groundwater basins, including the Gila Bend, Hualapai Valley, and Willcox Groundwater Basins. The designation can be initiated through a petition signed by at least 10% of registered voters or by the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) under certain conditions, such as land subsidence or significant groundwater level declines. The bill mandates the formation of a BMA council to oversee management, introduces requirements for public meetings, and outlines the responsibilities of the ADWR, including conducting economic studies and hydrological analyses post-BMA establishment. Additionally, it repeals the existing Willcox Active Management Area (AMA) and replaces it with the Willcox BMA, altering the regulatory framework for groundwater management in that region.

The bill also updates the statutes regarding the appointment and management of the BMA council, requiring immediate appointment of a new council member from the same class as the vacated position, stipulating removal only for cause, and establishing retention elections every four years. It introduces new requirements for applicants seeking groundwater rights, including sworn statements and historical water usage data, and establishes flexibility accounts for managing groundwater allocations. Furthermore, it outlines new requirements for the conveyance and retirement of groundwater rights, including notification to the Director of ADWR and the issuance of revised certificates. Overall, these updates aim to enhance local governance, accountability, and sustainable management of groundwater resources 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