The proposed bill would update current statutes by removing the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality's (ADEQ) requirement to provide staff support for the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, thereby enhancing the Commission's autonomy. It would establish the "Commission Fund," which would consist of legislative appropriations and fees collected by the Commission, redirecting these funds away from the state General Fund. This change would allow the Commission to utilize its fees for statutory duties without the constraints of legislative appropriation and ensure that these funds do not lapse.

Additionally, the bill would introduce several new provisions, including the ability for the Commission to accept federal funds and private grants, and grant the Commissioner the authority to set fees independently. It would require a majority vote for establishing fees related to drilling geothermal resource wells and clarify that civil penalties for violations can be recovered through a majority vote of the Commission. The bill would also exempt certain helium exploration activities from aquifer protection permit requirements, thereby streamlining the regulatory framework for oil and gas extraction in Arizona while ensuring the Commission has the necessary resources and authority to enforce compliance effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 27-501, 27-513, 27-514, 27-515, 27-517, 27-523, 27-524, 27-527, 27-528, 27-659, 49-250, 27-516, 27-520, 38-611, 35-146, 35-147, 49-455, 35-190
Senate Engrossed Version: 27-501, 27-513, 27-514, 27-515, 27-517, 27-523, 27-524, 27-527, 27-528, 27-659, 49-250, 27-516, 27-520, 38-611, 35-146, 35-147, 49-455, 35-190