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Recent Articles from Luige del Puerto
Commerce Authority plans shift 24 employees to OSPB
More than two-dozen employees will transfer to the governor's budget office from the Department of Commerce before the end of the year as part of a larger move to shift economic development responsibilities to a public-private organization.
Burns vacates office, reflects on career
Few sights say more about the end of a political career than a politician vacating his office. On Dec. 8, one of Arizona's longest-serving lawmakers packed his belongings in cardboard boxes, descended the stairs of the Senate and loaded them onto his car. But Senate President Bob Burns' departure reveals something more.
Bill to restore transplant coverage filed
The first very first bill filed for next legislative session seeks to restore transplant coverage that was restricted, a decision that highlighted the severity of the state's budget crisis but also put Arizona once again on the national spotlight.
Arizona gets ‘D’ for transparency of business subsidies
Even as Arizona’s politicians are contemplating a slew of tax breaks to attract or retain companies, they might also want to ratchet up their efforts when it comes to disclosing the incentives the state gives to businesses.
Arizona not alone in fiscal storm
The recession hit Arizona hard, but the situation here isn't as precarious as in Illinois, which is struggling from a whopping $13 billion budget deficit. Like Arizona, many states face significant budget shortfalls this year, a situation that probably will get worse as federal aid expires next year.
Voter discontent reflected in Senate panels
The Arizona Senate’s new Republican leaders took their cue from the public and created committees to reflect the general mood of voters — disgruntlement.
Committee overlap may lead to rowdy session
More committees mean more people divvying up the work, ostensibly making for an efficient legislative process.
Several panels could be home to next ‘jobs’ bill
The number of economy-related committees raises an interesting question: Which panel will consider legislation aimed at improving the state’s economy?
Dems complain border security panel is redundant
Some Democratic lawmakers couldn’t help but scratch their heads when the list of new Senate committees was released in November.
McComish calls Senate committee assignments ‘unfair’
Sen. John McComish said he’s got a lot more to offer the Senate than he will be allowed to contribute next year, based on his assessment of the committee assignments that were announced earlier this week.
Sen. Lopez marries longtime beau
Sen. Linda Lopez had one more reason to celebrate during the Thanksgiving holiday. The Tucson Democrat got married to her long-time boyfriend, Rudy Jones, on Nov. 26.
Biggs to head Senate Appropriations; committee memberships announced
Senator-elect Andy Biggs will not only head the Appropriations Committee – where the budget bills are traditionally assigned – the Gilbert Republican also was appointed as vice chairman of the Government Reform and Judiciary committees.
