It’s time we take serious look at intercity passenger rail
The Sun Corridor connecting Phoenix and Tucson is defined as a megaregion. It’s one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, with population growth anticipated to double by 2040. Recent spikes in population growth have demonstrated strains on our already overburdened freeways, which impact our safety, environment and ability to address the demands of a modern economy and quality of life.
Legislation to override AEL passes House panel
Lawmakers in the state House of Representatives took the first steps in waiving a spending limit that would require each K-12 school in Arizona to cut 17% of its operating budget.
Lawmakers back Rio Verde in water dispute
State legislators are prepared to intervene in a conflict between Scottsdale and Rio Verde over dwindling water supply that Scottsdale says it is not required to share with the community.
Hobbs calls for more money for public schools, oversight for charters in first State of the State
Gov. Katie Hobbs is putting education at the top of her agenda for 2023. In her State of the State address on Monday afternoon, Democrat Hobbs said she wants to lift a spending cap that could kneecap public schools, increase funding for public education – specifically teacher pay – and improve oversight of non-district schools that receive public money.
Fewer bills prefiled compared to previous years
The Arizona Legislature’s deadline to prefile bills is just days away and the number of bills that have been prefiled is set to be far fewer than last year.
Education funding, election issues expected to be among most contentious issues in session
The 2023 legislative session is being brought to you by the letter E. As in education funding and election issues. These promise to be among the most contentious issues as lawmakers return to the Capitol on Monday.
UofA to study cost of Telegraph Fire damages
In partnership with a legislative committee, the University of Arizona will conduct a comprehensive study to estimate the total costs of damage to communities, businesses and residents affected by the 2021 Telegraph Fire.
GOP incumbents in LD16 express concerns
Legislative District 16 is one of the key competitive districts in the election despite not getting big spending from either party compared to other competitive districts, but it could provide a chance for Democrats to steal a seat in the state House of Representatives.
House Rules office concludes Fernandez’s comments don’t ‘constitute harassment’
House Democrats recently completed an investigation of harassment allegations from a male representative, finding no evidence to take any disciplinary action. Rep. Alma Hernandez, D-Tucson, filed a complaint in September alleging that Rep. Brian Fernandez, D-Yuma, had made disparaging comments about her to fellow lawmakers and lobbyists multiple times.
House incumbent Republican Fillmore falling behind in election
House incumbent Republican - and colorful personality - John Fillmore, R-Apache Junction, fell behind in preliminary election results on Tuesday night.
Lawmakers aim to lure Hollywood to state with tax credits
State lawmakers have agreed to use the lure of millions of dollars in tax credits in hopes of bringing Hollywood to Arizona.
Arizona court postpones considering death warrant
The Arizona Supreme Court has postponed considering whether to set the execution of a death-row inmate who was temporarily spared from the death penalty last year.