The proposed bill would update current statutes by establishing the Brackish Groundwater Recovery Program Fund, which would be administered by the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (WIFA). This fund would include various revenue sources such as appropriations from the Legislature, federal funds, loan repayments, and donations. The bill introduces criteria for project evaluation and funding, including a matching dollar requirement for project development and construction, while also imposing restrictions on the distribution of funds by capping the amount awarded per project and requiring a request for proposals before granting funds. Furthermore, the bill mandates WIFA to establish minimum criteria for project proposals, ensuring assessments for feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential impacts on local water users and aquifers. It also prohibits the appropriation of fund monies for general state operations without a supermajority vote and limits administrative costs to 10% of the fund. Overall, these updates aim to enhance Arizona's water resource management by promoting brackish groundwater recovery initiatives while ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency in the use of public funds.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-1303, 49-1304, 49-1309
House Engrossed Version: 49-1303, 49-1304, 49-1309