Bill > SB1405

This bill amends Arizona law to expand and clarify citizen lawsuits related to environmental violations, allowing individuals to sue those who violate environmental laws or orders, or the director of environmental quality if they fail to perform a non-discretionary duty. It also modifies the notice period required before filing a lawsuit and clarifies that the director can intervene in such cases, while also allowing for the awarding of litigation costs, including attorney fees, to parties that substantially prevail or to defendants in frivolous cases. Furthermore, civil penalties collected from these lawsuits will now be deposited into specific environmental funds, such as the water quality assurance revolving fund and the air quality fund, which are used for environmental remediation and protection efforts. The bill also aligns certain provisions with federal environmental laws, specifically referencing the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/84959