Hobbs seeks business support in D.C. as Colorado River cuts loom

WASHINGTON (AZFamily) — Gov. Katie Hobbs pressed the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and national business leaders in Washington this week to back Arizona’s bid for more Colorado River water as federal officials weigh cuts that could squeeze supplies and drive up rates.

Hobbs warned that Arizona is especially vulnerable because, among the seven states that rely on the river, it holds the lowest priority under long-standing water rights agreements. She argued that federal plans being considered would place a disproportionate burden on Arizona compared with other states in the basin.

“I firmly believe Arizona has the most to offer in advancing national priorities of AI, national defense, and technological advancement,” Hobbs said.

The seven Colorado River states had hoped to reach a voluntary agreement on additional conservation, but talks deteriorated after Upper Basin states — Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico and Utah — rejected further cuts, arguing they already use less water than the Lower Basin states of Arizona, Nevada and California.

Hobbs said Arizona’s water security is directly tied to national defense, supply chains and food production. She highlighted the state’s growing semiconductor industry and its role in agriculture, including winter vegetable production. Hobbs also said Arizona has shown it can grow while holding water use relatively flat.

“In Arizona, we are ready to take on the challenge to save this river,” Hobbs said. “Since the 1950s, we’ve added over 6 million people to our state and have an economy roughly 100 times bigger, yet we’re still using roughly the same amount of water. And we’re willing to do more. But recent plans from the Department of Interior are putting our water supply in jeopardy.”

Hobbs called on the administration to intervene and push the states toward what she described as a “reasonable and fair” agreement that does not shortchange Arizona.

At the same time, Arizona is preparing for the possibility of litigation. The state has set aside $3 million to hire attorneys if the dispute ends up in court.

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