Bill > HB2096

This bill expands the authority of counties to access forgivable financial assistance from the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (WIFA) for the remediation, closure, or replacement of cesspools that pose a risk to public health or the environment. Previously, counties were generally limited to accessing such assistance for wastewater treatment facilities and nonpoint source projects, and eligibility was often tied to operating a sewage system. This legislation allows all counties to apply for and receive financial aid, including principal that doesn't need to be repaid, specifically for addressing the dangers posed by legacy cesspools, which have been prohibited in Arizona since 1976 and continue to threaten groundwater quality and public safety. The financial assistance will be funded through existing federal capitalization grants for the Clean Water Revolving Fund and the Drinking Water Revolving Fund, ensuring no impact on the state's general fund, and will prioritize cesspools in areas with vulnerable groundwater, near surface waters, or in low-to-moderate income communities. The bill also mandates that WIFA report annually on the progress and effectiveness of this cesspool remediation program.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83717