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HB 2827

groundwater withdrawal fee; Pinal AMA.

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Gail Griffin and 4 co-sponsors

Arizona bill imposing groundwater withdrawal fees in Pinal AMA to address aquifer depletion and fund water management solutions.

Senate Second Reading
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Bill Summary · HB 2827

Legislative bill overview

HB 2827 introduces a groundwater withdrawal fee specifically for the Pinal Active Management Area (AMA) in Arizona. The bill has progressed through initial House readings and was placed on the consent calendar, indicating legislative movement toward passage. The specific fee structure and revenue allocation are not detailed in the provided action history.

Why is this important

Arizona faces significant groundwater depletion challenges, with the Pinal AMA being one of the most stressed aquifers in the state. Groundwater fees could generate revenue for water conservation, aquifer replenishment, or alternative water source development while potentially incentivizing reduced consumption. This targets a critical resource management issue affecting agriculture, municipalities, and long-term water security in central Arizona.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural impact: Pinal County is heavily agricultural; fees may increase farming costs and pressure operations, particularly smaller farms with lower profit margins
  • Economic competitiveness: Higher water costs could disadvantage Arizona agricultural and industrial users compared to neighboring states with lower groundwater access costs
  • Fee structure fairness: Questions about whether fees apply uniformly across agricultural, municipal, and industrial users, and whether exemptions exist for certain sectors
  • Revenue allocation clarity: Uncertainty about where fee revenue goes and whether it effectively addresses groundwater sustainability or simply generates government income

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

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