AZ SB1226

Creates a comprehensive water quality monitoring program to evaluate pesticides, metals, and other contaminants in sport fish and assess health risks to consumers.

Requires sampling and analysis of fish from all recreational fisheries in Arizona at least once every three years, with special emphasis on urban areas.

Mandates the Department of Environmental Quality 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 to issue health advisories when fish consumption poses significant health risks, with notifications to local health departments and posting of bilingual (English and Spanish) advisory signs at fishing areas, piers, parks, and commercial fishing vessels.

Appropriates $500,000 from the state general fund for fiscal year 2024-2025 to the Department of Environmental Quality to implement the fish contaminant monitoring program.