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Bill

Bill

HB 2355

reporting; groundwater pumping; measuring

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Patty Contreras and 5 co-sponsors

Arizona bill requiring groundwater users to install measuring devices and report pumping volumes to establish comprehensive state-level water extraction monitoring.

House Second Reading
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Bill Summary · HB 2355

Legislative bill overview

HB 2355 establishes requirements for reporting and measuring groundwater pumping in Arizona. The bill mandates that entities extracting groundwater must install measuring devices and submit regular reports on their pumping volumes to state authorities. This creates a standardized data collection system for groundwater usage across the state.

Why is this important

Arizona faces chronic water scarcity, with groundwater serving as a critical reserve during drought periods. Currently, groundwater pumping lacks comprehensive monitoring, making it difficult for policymakers and water managers to understand consumption patterns or enforce sustainable use. This bill addresses a fundamental gap in water resource management by creating visibility into how much groundwater is actually being extracted.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden on agricultural and industrial users: Installation of measuring equipment and reporting compliance could impose significant expenses on farmers and businesses, particularly smaller operations with limited budgets
  • Implementation and enforcement challenges: Defining which pumps require measurement, establishing measurement standards, and monitoring compliance across dispersed rural areas presents practical difficulties
  • Water rights and property concerns: Some stakeholders may view mandatory reporting as government overreach into private property water usage, creating conflicts with existing water rights holders

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

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