Hobbs Signs 3 Water Bills, Vetoes 5 that “Threaten Water Future”

• Governor signs bipartisan bills to facilitate responsible growth and protect groundwater.
• New laws promote use of renewable water sources and support communities transitioning to alternative supplies.
• Governor vetoes bills that she says would weaken water protections and were pushed by corporate interests.

June 25, 2024 — Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs signed three water bills last week that she said will facilitate responsible, sustainable economic growth while protecting groundwater supplies.

In a June 19 news release, Hobbs said the bills are the result of bipartisan efforts to put in place smart, responsible policies that strengthen Arizona’s water management laws and encourage continued growth.

The bills address a variety of water-related issues, including the use of renewable water sources, the transition to alternative water supplies, and the protection of groundwater aquifers.

One of the bills, SB 1081, creates a pathway for agricultural water users and the City of Buckeye to collaborate in utilizing renewable, sustainable surface water and recycled water sources for future development. This will reduce the reliance on groundwater pumping and protect aquifers in the West Valley.

Another bill, SB 1181, provides a smooth transition for communities and water providers who are taking steps to achieve the sustainability of a 100-year Assured Water Supply Designation. This designation protects ratepayers and enables continued investments in critical infrastructure and renewable water supplies.

The third bill, SB 1242, promotes access to backup water supplies in the Harquahala groundwater basin. These supplies can be used to support the water portfolios in Arizona’s metropolitan areas and offset groundwater pumping in the Active Management Areas.

In her news release, Hobbs said she was happy to support water legislation that moves the needle, and that she would not compromise in rejecting bills that threaten Arizona’s water future and endanger the strongest water protection laws in the country.

Hobbs also vetoed five bills that she said were pushed by corporate interests and threatened the security of the water that homeowners, businesses, and communities rely upon.

The vetoed bills included HB 2017, HB 2020, HB 2062, HB 2127, and SB 1172. In her veto letter, Hobbs said the bills would weaken and circumvent the Assured Water Supply regulations that provide consumer protection and promote sustainable water management.

Hobbs said she remains committed to working with stakeholders and lawmakers to develop responsible water legislation.

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