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HB 2408

DWR; compact call; curtailment; appropriation

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by Alex Kolodin

HB 2408 grants Arizona's Department of Water Resources authority and funding to implement water curtailment measures triggered by interstate compact calls, affecting state water allocation during shortages.

House Second Reading
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Bill Summary · HB 2408

Legislative bill overview

HB 2408 authorizes the Department of Water Resources (DWR) to implement curtailment measures in response to a "compact call"—a formal declaration that water allocations under interstate compacts (likely the Colorado River Compact) must be reduced. The bill appears to appropriate funds and establish procedures for DWR to enforce water use reductions across the state.

Why is this important

Arizona relies heavily on Colorado River water for agriculture, municipal supply, and economic activity. Compact calls trigger mandatory cuts that affect water availability for millions of residents and businesses. This bill gives DWR explicit statutory authority to manage those cuts, which becomes increasingly relevant as Colorado River levels decline due to drought and climate change.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural vs. municipal impacts: Water curtailment affects farmers and cities differently; agricultural interests may resist cuts that prioritize urban/residential supplies
  • Implementation authority: Disputes over whether DWR has sufficient power to enforce curtailment across different water districts and stakeholder groups fairly
  • Appropriation amount: The bill's funding level may be inadequate or controversial depending on how extensive curtailment measures need to be

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

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