Bill > HB2413

This bill establishes a new legal framework for compensating water customers in active management areas for their wastewater effluent. Specifically, the bill requires municipal water providers with exclusive service areas to compensate eligible customers for a proportional share of the full market value of effluent (treated wastewater) that is not recharged back into the customer's active management area. Before billing customers, municipal providers must calculate several detailed metrics, including the total volume of wastewater received, effluent produced, effluent recharged, and the corresponding market value. Customers will receive a bill credit equal to their proportional share of the effluent's value. The bill defines different types of effluent recharge, including those used to satisfy replenishment obligations and those recharged without compensation. Customers or their agents can challenge the municipal provider's calculations through a written complaint to the director or by filing a private lawsuit. If a court or the director finds that a municipal provider has miscalculated and undercompensated a customer, the provider may be liable for damages, attorney fees, and interest. This legislation aims to ensure fair compensation for customers' wastewater and promote more transparent water management practices in Arizona.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82204