|
|
|
|
Consolidated electionsHB 2826 (consolidated election dates; political subdivisions) mandates that, with very narrow exceptions, all municipal elections must be held in the fall of even-numbered years. The bill, which is strongly opposed by the League, passed the House by a slim margin on March 1.On Thursday, March 8, the League participated in a stakeholder meeting regarding the legislation. The product of the meeting, hosted by the bill's sponsor, Rep. Michelle Ugenti (R-Scottsdale), was a proposed committee amendment that addressed many of the League's concerns. The bill was heard by the Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday, March 12. The amendment was offered by the committee chairman, Senator Ron Gould (R-Lake Havasu City), on behalf of the bill's sponsor. The amendment, however, was defeated by voice vote, and the committee proceeded to approve the bill as introduced by a vote of 6-2. The League remains adamantly opposed to the bill for a variety of reasons, including: state interference in a matter of purely local concern (particularly with respect to the elimination of spring elections for cities and towns); prospective ballot length and voter fatigue; increased costs and voter confusion; unnecessary and harmful delays for certain types of elections; and difficulties associated with all-mail ballots. The bill now proceeds to the Senate Rules Committee. In the meantime, city and town officials are encouraged to contact their senators to urge strong opposition to HB 2826. |
|
|
Legislative Bulletin is published by the League of Arizona Cities and Towns. Forward your comments or suggestions to league@azleague.org. |
