Legislative Overview

Today marks the 131st day of the First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature. The level of legislative activity continues to ebb and flow this week with minimal floor due to continued behind the scenes discussions on the state budget and Medicaid expansion. With the budget in the hands of representatives, the Senate considered a handful of bills and ultimately sent those bills to the Governor's desk for action. Unsurprisingly, the Governor quickly proceeded to veto all five bills (SB 1088, SB 1178, SB 1236, SB 1323 and SB 1445) and include a reminder that the bill moratorium she imposed is still in effect until "we see resolution of the two most pressing issues facing us: adoption of a Fiscal 2014 State Budget and plan for Medicaid."

On the municipal front, tax simplification continues to spark discussion and conversation at the Capitol. Rumors of all manner continue to fill the void left by any official movement on this piece of legislation. Despite the fact that discussions with the League have been discontinued, those that would force ill-advised tax policy upon the local governments of Arizona have yet to advance their proposal. It is a testament to the efforts of cities and towns across the state-as well as to those legislators that understand the important role cities and towns play in the continued success of our state-that such a proposal has not moved. Please continue to engage your legislative delegation on the potential impact to your community and the importance of adopting reasoned, viable tax reform proposals.

Resolutions Deadline

As a reminder: the deadline for submitting resolutions and accepting appointment to the Resolution Committee is June 14. Please officially accept your appointment or designate a council representative to serve your city/town on the 2013 Resolutions Committee, and submit your resolutions either by emailing your responses to resolutions@azleague.org or by faxing the RSVP form and resolutions format sheet to the League at 602-253-3874.

Other Bills of Note

(All bills being actively monitored by the League can be found here.)

Bill Number - Short Title - Subject(s)

No bills of note.

Legislative Bulletin is published by the League of Arizona Cities and Towns.
Forward your comments or suggestions to league@azleague.org.