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HB 2055

brackish groundwater recovery program

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Gail Griffin and 1 co-sponsor

Arizona establishes a brackish groundwater recovery program to develop alternative water supplies for addressing water scarcity through saline aquifer extraction and treatment.

Vetoed by Governor
0
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Bill Summary · HB 2055

Legislative bill overview

HB 2055 establishes a brackish groundwater recovery program in Arizona, likely authorizing the state to develop, manage, and potentially utilize brackish (moderately saline) groundwater resources as an alternative water supply. The bill has passed the House and is currently in the Senate legislative process.

Why is this important

Arizona faces chronic water scarcity, particularly with reduced Colorado River allocations. Brackish groundwater represents an underutilized resource that could supplement freshwater supplies if economically viable treatment technologies are deployed. This addresses long-term water security for agriculture, municipalities, and industry without competing for existing freshwater aquifers.

Potential points of contention

  • Treatment costs and economic viability: Desalination and treatment of brackish water is capital-intensive; unclear who bears infrastructure and operational costs and whether rates remain affordable for agricultural users
  • Environmental impacts: Large-scale brackish aquifer extraction and brine disposal could affect groundwater dynamics, soil chemistry, and potentially impact existing freshwater aquifers in proximity
  • Water rights and allocation: How brackish water fits into Arizona's complex water rights system (Colorado River Compact, groundwater management areas) and whether it competes with or supplements existing allocations requires clarification

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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