AZ Legislative Update 01-13-2023

The first week of the legislative session was an exciting one, as lawmakers convened for Governor Katie Hobbs’ State of the State and the 28th annual Indian Nations and Tribes Legislative Day. There’s more to come, too: Governor Katie Hobbs (D) will release her state budget proposal this afternoon. (We’ll have a detailed summary of her budget next week.)

While most committees cancelled their scheduled hearings this week, several met for briefings on water, school funding, and the state’s debt. Three bills advanced, as well: House committees approved a corporate income tax cut, and the Senate Health & Human Services Committee unanimously supported proposals to provide cochlear implants and speech therapy for adult AHCCCS members.

What’s Next?

Lawmakers have introduced almost 600 proposals so far this year – a number that is lower than the average session. There are many more to come, however, and policy committees will begin consideration of more bills next week.

Senate Republicans have outlined their priorities for the session, and it’s clear that there will be a lot of vetoes this year. Legislative Democrats have a legislative agenda that’s more closely aligned with Governor Hobbs’ goals but mostly at odds with the views of the Republican legislative majority.

In the Courts

The Arizona Supreme Court ruled the legislature does not have to follow open meeting laws it enacts. A lawsuit about school funding is delayed, as Attorney General Kris Mayes (D) evaluates the state’s approach to the longstanding dispute.

In the News

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne (R) approved 25,000 more ESA applications. A 2021 law shaped Arizona’s Holocaust education.