Governor Hobbs and GOP Legislature Clash Over Rural Groundwater Management
*PHOENIX – Tensions are escalating in Arizona between Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs and the GOP-controlled Legislature regarding the regulation of groundwater pumping in rural areas, with time running short. At the session’s start, Hobbs expressed hope for bipartisan support on her plan to establish rural groundwater management areas. However, negotiations have stalled since early April, leaving both sides frustrated amid ongoing drought concerns and dwindling water resources.
Disagreements have emerged over different proposals: Republicans argue that Hobbs’ plan mandates reductions that are unfeasible, while Democrats counter that the GOP’s proposal lacks urgency. Moreover, there’s contention surrounding the governance structures for local councils overseeing groundwater use and the specific basins to include.
Experts warn that groundwater supplies are rapidly depleting, with some wells in rural areas going dry. Acknowledging the imbalances in Arizona’s existing regulatory framework, established in 1980, stakeholders emphasize the need for tailored solutions for rural economies reliant on agriculture. Governor Hobbs has threatened executive action if progress isn’t made before the Legislature adjourns, highlighting the critical nature of the negotiations.*
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