Sign In
Free Newsletter
Lawmakers move successful tax extension over far-right opposition
Established Republicans and Democrats worked together to pass a controversial tax extension on Monday, raising questions about whether the far-right Freedom Caucus will be as effective next session after the caucus failed to kill the deal.
Some lawmakers question need for special session
A bill moratorium and a budget stalemate meant the House and Senate weren’t conducting any real business before Gov. Doug Ducey called a special session – so why call one?
At least 90 opinions of what are ‘must-pass’ bills
Some lobbyists and lawmakers have a pitch for legislative leaders dallying over plans to adjourn or resume the session – find a middle ground.
Glendale, Tucson voters reject city council salary increases
Voters in Glendale and Tucson overwhelmingly voted down large raises for city councilors this week, marking the latest in a series of ill-fated attempts by policymakers to increase their pay.
Who killed mall commission remains a mystery
The Legislative Governmental Mall Commission was given a name bureaucracies dream of and a death Sen. Lela Alston described as “snakey” even by political standards.
Proposed law would sweep hashish under definition of marijuana
Rep. Tony Rivero wants to change state law to clarify that cannabis is marijuana and protected for medicinal use.
Arizona political ad spending hit record high – $129M
Spending on campaign ads in Arizona reached a record $129 million this year, part of a national trend that saw cable and broadcast election ad spending top $3 billion for the first time in a midterm election cycle.
Family overcomes bad hand
For many years Kevin DeMenna had a lobbying practice second to few at the Arizona state Capitol. Then some personal health challenges and a legal situation put a dent in the business. Over these years the business had evolved to include Kevin’s sons, a construct many fathers would be proud of, and relish.
Ken Bennett in uphill battle to unseat Ducey
Ken Bennett’s challenge to Gov. Doug Ducey drew criticism from Republicans, who are desperate to unite behind strong candidates to stave off Democratic momentum that’s building across the country.
Most medical marijuana bills go up in smoke; Senate OKs 1
Legislators have introduced a swath of bills aimed at amending the state’s voter-protected Medical Marijuana Act, but getting the necessary votes to pass has proven difficult.
For the DeMennas, the business of government is a family affair
It’s common for children to follow in the footsteps of their parents, but in politics, that’s usually the case for elected officials, not lobbyists, and that’s one reason why the DeMennas occupy an unusual perch.
Medical pot dispensaries to start paying personal property tax, assessor announces
Taxing personal property at medical marijuana dispensaries and growth operations may net Maricopa County schools more than $1 million, and likely more once the county assessor completes audits of taxes owed in previous years.
