This bill proposes significant updates to current groundwater management statutes by establishing a new framework for the designation of Basin Management Areas (BMAs) in specific groundwater basins, including Gila Bend, Hualapai Valley, and Willcox. It allows the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) to initiate BMA designations based on petitions from residents or specific conditions like land subsidence. The bill mandates the formation of a BMA council, public meetings, and reporting requirements, while repealing the existing Willcox Active Management Area (AMA) and replacing it with the Willcox BMA. New procedural requirements for petitioning and public engagement are also emphasized.

Additionally, the bill introduces updates regarding the appointment and responsibilities of the BMA council, including immediate appointment of new members, retention elections every four years, and prohibiting compensation for council members. It outlines specific procedures for managing water resources, such as mandatory reductions in groundwater allocations and public meetings regarding BMA management plans. The bill also establishes new requirements for groundwater rights applications, flexibility accounts for permit holders, and detailed procedures for the conveyance of groundwater rights. Overall, these changes aim to enhance groundwater management, accountability, and community involvement 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