HB 2309 Summary

• Extends exemptions from irrigation water duties and conservation requirements for groundwater use in the Phoenix active management area from December 31, 2024 to December 31, 2034 (10-year extension).

• Changes the deadline for the director's recommendation to the governor and legislature regarding extending these exemptions from December 15, 2019 to November 15, 2031.

• Extends the exemption from groundwater withdrawal fees and water quality assurance fees through December 31, 2034 for irrigation use and non-irrigation uses in the exempted area, with a $500 annual fee for non-irrigation use.

• Updates the water duty exemption fee payment deadline from March 31, 2025 to March 31, 2035 for the exempted area.

• Extends the accounting of certain drainage water withdrawals as surface water (rather than groundwater) for compliance purposes from January 1, 2025 to January 1, 2035 for turf facilities and riparian habitat within the exempted area.