AZ SB1708

Establishes a comprehensive water quality monitoring and assessment program by the Department of Environmental Quality to evaluate pesticides, metals, and other contaminants in sport fish and assess health risks from consumption.

Requires sampling and analysis of fish from all recreational fisheries in Arizona at least once every three years, with special emphasis on urban areas, and annual screenings to identify new contaminated sites.

Mandates the Department of Environmental Quality to contract with the Department of Health Services to prepare health risk assessments after each triennial water quality review and submit reports to the Arizona Water Protection Fund Commission and Game and Fish Commission.

Requires the Department of Environmental Quality to issue health advisories when fish consumption presents significant health risks, with signage posted in English and Spanish at fishing locations, parks, and piers, and warnings published in the Game and Fish Department's fishing regulations and online reports.

Appropriates $500,000 from the state general fund for fiscal year 2021-2022 to implement the program, which terminates on July 1, 2031.