The proposed bill would update current statutes governing weather modification operations in Arizona by introducing new requirements for the licensing process and enhancing regulatory oversight. Key changes include the establishment of a license database managed by the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR), the distribution of license fees between ADWR and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), and the requirement for public notification and comment periods for proposed operations. The bill also mandates that the Director of ADWR transmit administratively complete applications to ADEQ, which will oversee the chemicals used in weather modification, and establishes criteria for suspending operations based on industry guidelines and stakeholder feedback.

In addition to these new provisions, the bill proposes to delete certain existing requirements, such as detailed information about operating personnel and previous contracts, and instead requires comprehensive details about the proposed operations, including environmental impacts. It also imposes new obligations on licensees, such as maintaining insurance or financial surety, and allows for public petitions regarding violations. The bill further mandates that ADEQ base the list of authorized materials on industry guidelines and review license applications within 30 days, while also emphasizing public engagement through meetings and feedback. Overall, these updates aim to streamline the licensing process, enhance public transparency, and ensure compliance with environmental standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-117, 45-1601, 45-1602, 45-1603, 45-1603.01, 45-1603.02, 45-1603.03, 45-1604, 45-1605, 45-1606, 45-1607, 45-1608, 49-119, 45-113, 45-115, 45-116, 45-183, 45-273, 45-292, 45-411.01, 45-467, 45-476.01, 45-595, 45-612, 45-703, 45-871.01, 45-874.01, 45-1021, 45-1041, 45-1205, 35-190, 35-313, 35-146, 35-147