A proposal to allow development in metro Phoenix despite low groundwater supplies was voted into effect Friday by a state rulemaking agency. Groundwater is protected in urban areas which are part of “active management areas.” Last year, Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs limited certain kinds of development in areas like Buckeye and Queen Creek because models show basin levels are low and certificates that prove 100 years of assured water supply would fall short based on new data. The new rules approved by the Governor’s Regulatory Review Council on Friday allow building if developers use new water sources and offset groundwater pumping.

Other Arizona water-related articles:

• Courthouse News Service: Arizona farmers oppose water regulations as land sinks beneath them 
• Arizona Daily Star: Arizona seeks ways to import huge amounts of water