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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Sixth Legislature, Second Regular Session
rural communities; groundwater; tools
Purpose
Subject to voter approval, expresses the opinion of the Legislature that Arizona's rural communities have the necessary tools to address groundwater supplies and ensure future water security.
Background
A large portion of the world's fresh water resides underground, stored within cracks and pores in the rock that make up the Earth's crust. Half of the U.S. population relies on ground water for domestic uses. In many parts of the United States, people rely on ground water for drinking, irrigation, industry and livestock. This is particularly true in areas with limited precipitation, limited surface water resources, or high demand from agriculture and growing populations (U.S. EPA).
An aquifer
is a geologic formation that contains sufficient saturated material to be
capable of storing water and transmitting water in usable quantities to a well
(A.R.S.
§ 45-802.01). Stressors that can deplete aquifers include: 1) changes in
precipitation and snowmelt patterns;
2) withdrawal of ground water for drinking, irrigation and other human uses;
and 3) impervious paved surfaces that prevent precipitation from recharging
ground water. Some deep aquifers may take thousands of years to replenish (U.S. EPA).
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Resolves that the Legislature and the local communities in Arizona have provided and will continue to provide rural communities in Arizona with an abundance of tools to adequately manage and address their groundwater resources, both now and in the future.
2. Becomes effective if approved by the voters and on proclamation of the Governor.
House Action
NREW 2/13/24 DP 6-4-0-0
3rd Read 2/28/24 31-28-0-0-1
Prepared by Senate Research
March 19, 2024
RA/KP/slp