ISSUE 7 - February 24, 2012

Department of Water Resources Assessment

On Wednesday, February 22, the House Appropriations Committee considered and unanimously passed HB 2493 (department of water resources; funding). The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Russ Jones (R-Yuma) establishes a joint legislative study committee to determine alternative funding mechanisms for the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). Furthermore, it repeals the statutory authority of ADWR to impose an assessment on municipalities in two years. The bill previously passed the House Committee on Agriculture and Water and now proceeds to the Rules Committee.

SB 1288 (municipal water fees; repeal; appropriation) repeals the ADWR assessment authority immediately upon the bill's effective date and provides for funding of the agency through the State's general fund. The bill, sponsored by Senator Gail Griffin (R-Hereford), passed the Senate on Third Read by a vote of 30-0 on February 16.

Preferring the approach of SB 1288, but appreciating the sentiment of HB 2493, the League registered its neutrality on the latter during Wednesday's hearing. Final decisions with respect to the assessment are expected to result from future budget negotiations between the legislative and executive branches.



Legislative Bulletin is published by the League of Arizona Cities and Towns.
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Issue 7 - February 24, 2012
Issue 7 - February 24, 2012
Issue 7 - February 24, 2012
Issue 7 - February 24, 2012
Issue 7 - February 24, 2012
Issue 7 - February 24, 2012