Arizona House Bill HB2765

Arizona 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/23

Caption

Appropriation; DEQ; water sources; treatment

Impact

The impact of HB2765 could be significant, as it directly targets the remediation of water contamination issues that pose risks to public health and the environment. By providing dedicated funding to the DEQ, the bill aims to bolster efforts in tackling contamination and improving water quality. This legislative effort reflects a growing acknowledgment of the importance of clean water in public health discussions and expands the state's ability to respond to environmental challenges proactively. Legislative support for this bill may signal a broader commitment to addressing environmental issues at the state level, particularly regarding the management of hazardous substances in water supplies.

Summary

House Bill 2765 is a legislative proposal introduced in Arizona that seeks to address contamination in the state's water sources. Specifically, the bill allocates a one-time appropriation of $5,000,000 from the state general fund for fiscal year 2023-2024 to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The primary focus of this funding is to identify, contain, and treat Arizona's water sources that are affected by perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are known to have harmful environmental and health effects. The appropriation is exempt from the provisions regarding lapsing of appropriations under Arizona law, ensuring that the allocated funds will be available for the intended purpose without the typical restrictions that could limit their use in future fiscal years.

Contention

While the bill appears to have support among its sponsors, which include multiple representatives, there may be contention surrounding the use of state funds for environmental remediation versus other pressing state needs. Debates could arise regarding the effectiveness of this particular appropriation compared to other environmental initiatives or budgetary priorities. Additionally, discussions could surface about the extent to which the state will address PFAS contamination—whether through other regulatory measures or long-term strategic planning in environmental policy. Stakeholders may also weigh in on how the bill complements existing policies related to water quality and environmental protection.