AZ SB1762

Allows universities under the Arizona Board of Regents to provide pro bono legal assistance to unrepresented claimants in general stream water rights adjudications with adjusted gross income below 500% of federal poverty guidelines.

University representation is limited to proceedings before evidentiary hearings; universities may not represent claimants at trial-like contested hearings unless the claim has been settled.

Requires cooperating universities to coordinate with cooperative extension programs in the state that support economic vitality and natural resource use in rural communities.

Universities offering assistance must submit annual written reports by November 15 to the Governor, Speaker of the House, President of the Senate, and Secretary of State detailing their assistance activities.

Appropriates $500,000 from the state general fund to the University of Arizona in fiscal year 2021-2022 to establish the water rights adjudication law clinic, with funds exempt from lapsing.