Grand Canyon Times

Senate Republicans in Arizona have decided to withdraw from the Governor's Water Policy Council. This decision follows actions by the Executive Forum that Senate Republicans describe as questionable and unethical, particularly regarding the exclusion of farmers and ranchers from discussions on rural groundwater management.

Majority Whip Sine Kerr, who is also the Chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Energy & Water, expressed her disapproval in a letter to Governor Katie Hobbs. Kerr criticized the council for rejecting meaningful feedback and alternatives in favor of what she described as a predetermined outcome. She accused the council of advancing legislation proposed by an out-of-state environmental group with goals that could negatively impact Arizona's agricultural sector and rural communities.

"The Governor's Water Policy Council is nothing more than a forum to rubberstamp the progressive environmental goals of special interest groups," said Senator Kerr. She emphasized that these actions do not serve the best interests of Arizona citizens and stakeholders who would be affected by new groundwater management policies. According to Kerr, this agenda threatens to harm the economy and livelihoods of farmers and ranchers while excluding them from fair representation.

Kerr expressed disappointment with what she perceives as an approach by Governor Hobbs that alienates Arizona's land and water stewards. She argued that this represents a significant departure from Arizona's historical collaborative approach to water management, prioritizing political gains over sound policymaking.

Kerr stated her intention to continue working within the Legislature alongside the agriculture community to find solutions for basin management issues that benefit all Arizonans. She aims to contribute to ongoing efforts to secure Arizona's water future.

For further information, Kim Quintero, Director of Communications for the Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus, can be contacted at kquintero@azleg.gov.