The proposed bill would update current statutes by removing the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission from the oversight of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and eliminating ADEQ's requirement to provide staff support. It would establish a new "oil and gas conservation commission fund" consisting of legislative appropriations and fees collected by the Commission, redirecting these fees away from the state General Fund. The Commission would gain the authority to set its own fees through a majority vote and would be allowed to accept federal funds and private contributions, enhancing its financial independence and operational sustainability.

Additionally, the bill would modify definitions and procedures related to drilling permits, specifying that fees must be established by a majority vote of the Commission. It would clarify the Commission's authority to enforce regulations and impose civil penalties for violations, while also transferring all relevant equipment, records, and personnel from ADEQ to the Commission. The updates aim to improve the Commission's operational efficiency and align its fee structure with those of similar states, thereby strengthening the regulatory framework for oil and gas conservation in Arizona.

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