This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning the groundwater code. Key changes include the insertion of new language that clarifies the process for designating irrigation non-expansion areas, including the requirement for a numeric groundwater flow model and hydrologic report to accompany petitions. The bill also specifies that the director's decision on such petitions is not subject to judicial review if it complies with the established criteria. Additionally, it introduces a definition for "reasonably safe supply for irrigation," emphasizing the need for a reliable groundwater source for a century.

The bill also modifies existing language by deleting outdated terms and phrases, such as "sub-basin," replacing it with "subbasin," and streamlining the process for public hearings and notifications. It establishes that the director's findings and orders are final for the purposes of limitations on irrigated acres and outlines the conditions under which judicial review can be sought. Furthermore, it stipulates that if the director declines to designate an area, any irrigated acres during the review period may continue to be irrigated, and a subsequent petition cannot be filed for three years after a refusal.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-114, 45-432, 45-433, 45-434, 45-435, 45-436, 45-476.01, 41-1092.09, 41-1092.08, 45-404, 45-414, 45-571, 45-576.03, 45-412, 16-168, 19-111