Arizona Democrats tout plan to stimulate state, federal economy
A plan to revitalize the U.S. economy put forward by liberal groups would create jobs in Arizona and help the poor move to the middle class, a Democratic state lawmaker said Wednesday. “The American dream is for any American, no matter where they start in life, to be able to accomplish their full goals,” said Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Phoenix.
Flagstaff lawmaker says GOP failed, Democrats will gain legislative seats
Tom Chabin isn’t shy about airing disagreements with Republicans in committee hearings and floor debates, though he typically doesn’t get his way. That, after all, is par for the course for Democrats in the Arizona House of Representatives, who are outnumbered by Republicans, 35-25.
Pearce’s controversial immigration enforcement bill morphs again
As the Arizona Legislature inches closer to passing Sen. Russell Pearce's immigration bill, some lawmakers want a couple more changes before it receives final approval.
Anti-knife law restriction bill gets through House committee
Cities, counties and other governmental entities would be forbidden from restricting people's use of knives under a bill winding its way through the legislative process.
Tax cut bill zips through House, heads to Senate
The House of Representatives has approved a bill to stimulate economic development by cutting taxes and creating new incentives for businesses, despite complaints from critics that the measure was rushed through before it could be understood completely.
Bill aims to discourage lawmakers from skipping floor votes by docking pay
Rep. Jerry Weiers is fed up with fellow lawmakers who skip floor votes. His solution: Dock their pay and list their names on the Web.
Brewer reaching out to rank-and-file lawmakers
Gov. Jan Brewer's budget proposal will be a hard sell to Democrats. And some provisions, such as her temporary sales tax increase, will be difficult for Republicans to embrace.
Lawmaker, experts push idea of competition to provide electricity in Arizona
Opening Arizona to competition by companies providing electricity could lower rates and give providers more incentive to act wisely when considering investments on infrastructure, experts told a group of state lawmakers Nov. 12.
Gambling pitched as Arizona’s budget salvation
The struggling Arizona racing industry is hoping it can sell lawmakers on a proposal to help racetracks stay open and give the state hundreds of millions of dollars in new revenue. But the idea faces resistance on several fronts, as it would expand gambling by allowing "racinos" and by lifting limits on tribal casinos.
GOP-led panel hears testimony on STO program
Members of a Republican-led committee met for the first time on Oct. 14 to examine possible weaknesses of a state law designed to make private schools more accessible to children... […]