Rhetoric vs. reality: Prop. 122 aims to counter federal laws
The grandiose rhetoric of Proposition 122 doesn’t match its actual language. The measure seeks to restrict the use of state resources to enforce federal laws deemed unconstitutional. But it appears to authorize lawmakers and voters to do only what can be done already.
McNeil says allegations in complaint mischaracterized
Former Arizona Department of Administration Director Brian McNeil defended himself from an employee’s accusations that preceded his firing, saying the events in her complaint to federal officials were mischaracterized and that he’s never discriminated against anyone.
The return of SB1062? Gay marriage ruling likely to renew push for ‘religious liberty’ protections
With marriage licenses being issued to gay couples across the state, Republican lawmakers are already talking about ways to protect religious organizations and businesses from being forced to participate in gay marriages. And SB1062 is back on the forefront of some minds.
Attorney general challenges city election ruling
The Attorney General’s Office is asking the Arizona Supreme Court to review a lower court’s opinion invalidating a 2012 law that requires city elections to be held in even-numbered years.
Navajo Nation Council passes emergency language requirement repeal
Shortly after midnight last night, the Navajo Nation Council voted to scrap the longstanding requirement for the tribe’s president to be fluent in the Navajo Language. The eleventh-hour vote, approved 11-10 with one abstaining, clears a path for Chris Deschene to remain on the ballot. His qualifications had been challenged over his admittedly limited ability in speaking the Navajo language.[...]
Glass maker deals to exit Apple, Arizona plant
A deal between Apple Inc. and a synthetic sapphire glass maker that was gearing up to produce huge amounts of the product for Apple in an Arizona factory allows for the sale of more than 2,000 furnaces to repay Apple.
Arizona poised to buy homes on West Valley Loop 202 extension route
Plans for a 22-mile extension of the Loop 202 freeway around the Phoenix area's southern edge are nearing final approval, and the owners of about 200 homes have been told to get ready to find new places to live.
APS spends big for Brnovich as company battles pollution rules
The parent company of the state's largest electric utility is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars through a third party to ensure that Republican Mark Brnovich becomes the next state attorney general.
DuVal clarifies parental consent position after GOP criticism
Following several days of fierce Republican criticism over his opposition to laws requiring parental consent for minors who are seeking abortions, Democratic gubernatorial nominee Fred DuVal said he wouldn’t attempt to change those laws if he’s elected governor.
Brewer fires ADOA director McNeil
Gov. Jan Brewer has fired Arizona Department of Administration Director Brian McNeil over what the administration described as a “personnel matter,” a move that stunned Capitol observers due to its peculiar timing and McNeil’s deep ties to the governor.
Gay marriage ruling will bring renewed push for religious liberty protections
With marriage licenses just starting to be issued to gay couples across the state, lawmakers are already talking about ways to protect religious organizations and businesses from being forced to participate in gay marriages, and SB1062 is back on the forefront of many minds.
Lawmakers eyeing e-cigarette taxation in light of looming budget deficit
The devastating recent state budget projections have some lawmakers eyeing additional taxes on e-cigarettes as a new source of revenue that could help bridge the $1 billion projected deficit by next year.