If enacted, this bill would update current statutes by appropriating $1,000,000 from the state General Fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 specifically to the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). This funding is intended to support the initiation or defense of litigation aimed at protecting and enforcing Arizona's allocation of Colorado River water as established under the Colorado River Compact of 1922.
The bill introduces new language that specifies the purpose of the appropriation, ensuring that the funds are allocated for legal actions related to Arizona's water rights against claims from upper basin states or the federal government. This addition clarifies the intent of the appropriation and reinforces the state's commitment to safeguarding its water resources. The current statutes remain unchanged except for the insertion of this new appropriation language.