This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning underground water storage, savings, and replenishment. Notably, it introduces a provision that prohibits municipal providers from receiving credit for stored Colorado River water or central Arizona project water during declared shortages. Additionally, it establishes that any assignment of long-term storage credits inconsistent with this new provision will be rejected by the director. The bill also clarifies that contracts executed by the district must ensure that central Arizona project water allocated for storage is limited to water that would not otherwise be delivered for direct use to other subcontractors in the same active management area.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing language regarding contracts with the district, allowing for broader agreements with various entities while ensuring that all costs related to water storage and facilities are covered. It also stipulates that any property acquired under these contracts is deemed taxable for specific county revenue purposes. Lastly, it explicitly states that municipal providers cannot order central Arizona project water for storage during Colorado River shortages, reinforcing the restrictions on water management during critical periods.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-852.01, 45-854.01, 48-3713.02, 45-851.01, 45-802.01, 45-591, 45-599, 45-514, 48-3772, 48-3771, 45-859.01, 45-853.01, 45-834.01, 45-855.01