Some states move forward with exchanges despite opposition to health care law
Arizona is far from alone in balking at the creation of a state-run health insurance exchange, though other GOP-led states are putting aside their opposition to the federal health care law and implementing one of its more controversial provisions.
Solar advocates say waste incinerators aren’t green enough
A proposed waste-to-energy plant in Phoenix is being touted by supporters as a source of renewable energy and a way to minimize the amount of trash in landfills. But critics of the project argue that the waste incinerators aren’t as green as supporters make them out to be — and the proposal has a loophole that could allow a utility to get renewable energy credit for burning fossil fuels.
Beat ’em or join ’em? Federal health care law forces lawmakers to decide what they dislike less
By offering states the option to run a key piece of the federal health care overhaul, the law is forcing Arizona’s lawmakers into the ultimate conundrum: Do nothing and potentially lose significant control over the state’s health care system or help implement a program they’d rather see in the gutter.
Solicitor general says no corporate contributions for pro-Pearce committee
A long-awaited opinion by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office reaffirmed state election officials’ opinion that the committee opposing the recall effort against Senate President Russell Pearce cannot accept corporate contributions.
Redistricting chairwoman admits to inaccuracies in her application for the role
At today’s meeting of the Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission, Chairwoman Colleen Mathis admitted that her initial application omitted information about work her husband had done for a former Democratic lawmaker’s campaign.
AZ Supreme Court opinion explains IRC decision on Bender
The Arizona Supreme Court on Friday justified its reasoning in allowing ASU law professor Paul Bender to remain as a candidate for the Independent Redistricting Commission by saying no use of the terms “public office” or “public officers” in Arizona law includes tribal officers.
Legislators water down ignition interlock law
Arizona solidified its reputation as a state that is particularly tough on drunk drivers in 2007, when legislators required first-time offenders to equip their vehicle with an ignition interlock device for one year.
DOJ medical marijuana memo won’t end state’s lawsuit
A recent letter intended to clarify the federal government’s policies on prosecuting medical marijuana cases won’t put an end to the state’s lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice, Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne said July 6.
Playing catch-up: Despite slow start, IRC targets fall map completion
The Independent Redistricting Commission was crafted to give the power to draw political maps to an appointed panel, free from political shackles. But now months behind the pace set by the previous IRC, there is a very real possibility that the job may fall to a panel of federal judges.
Enforcement of new Arizona abortion laws on hold
Newly enacted restrictions on abortion services in Arizona are being put on hold temporarily while a judge considers a legal challenge.
Broome leaving GPEC for San Diego
After six years at the helm of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, Executive Director Barry Broome is leaving for a new job in San Diego.
Court of Appeals blocks Land Department funding scheme
The Arizona State Land Department will have to rely on its backup plan for funding after the Arizona Court of Appeals forbade it from the proceeds from trust land sales for its budget.