Bill > HB2571

This bill creates a new mechanism for incentivizing groundwater recharge through infrastructure development in Arizona's active management areas. Specifically, the bill allows entities such as cities, counties, corporations, and districts to earn "physical availability credits" for developing infrastructure that increases groundwater recharge, such as stormwater detention basins, roadways, and sidewalks that facilitate water absorption. These credits can be used to meet water supply requirements and can be earned for projected increases in groundwater recharge over a 100-year period. The Arizona water director is required to establish rules by January 1, 2026, detailing the application process, infrastructure certification procedures, eligibility criteria, and methods for quantifying the expected recharge and corresponding credits. Notably, applicants seeking these credits will be exempt from certain permitting requirements. The bill defines "person" broadly to include natural persons, corporations, cities, towns, conservation districts, water improvement districts, and county flood control districts, ensuring wide applicability across different types of organizations interested in improving groundwater sustainability through innovative infrastructure design.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82407