The proposed bill would amend current statutes to allow for the recharging of stormwater within constructed underground storage facilities in the Phoenix Active Management Area (AMA). Specifically, it would insert provisions that enable a storer to recharge stormwater and receive replenishment credits, which can be used or transferred to offset replenishment obligations within the same subbasin. The Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) would be required to determine the quantity of stormwater recharged annually and credit the storer's account accordingly. Additionally, the bill clarifies that replenishment credits will be treated as groundwater rather than stored water and establishes definitions for stormwater.

Current law stipulates that applicants for water storage permits must have rights to the proposed water source and comply with various regulations. The bill would modify these requirements by explicitly including stormwater as an eligible source for aquifer replenishment and allowing for the issuance of permits specifically for stormwater storage. It also emphasizes that the storage of stormwater will not infringe on existing water rights. Overall, the bill aims to enhance water management practices by facilitating the use of stormwater for groundwater replenishment while ensuring compliance with existing legal frameworks.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-831.01, 45-837.01, 45-852.01, 45-854.01, 45-871.01
Senate Engrossed Version: 45-831.01, 45-837.01, 45-852.01, 45-854.01, 45-871.01