AzLA Legislative Network

Secondary Levy Limits go to Committee of the Whole

2011-02-23T13:19:00.001-08:00

CALENDAR: COW Calendar #1
DAY: Thursday
DATE: February 24, 2011
TIME: The House is scheduled to reconvene at
link to COW Calendar #1: http://www.azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/calendar/h0224013102.doc.htm

BILL: HB 2338 SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
link: http://www.azleg.gov/DocumentsForBill.asp?Bill_Number=2338&Session_Id=102
First sponsor: Rep. Olson (bio at http://www.azleg.gov/MembersPage.asp?Member_ID=108&Legislature=50&Session_ID=102 )
LOLA Summary: The Property Tax Oversight Commission is authorized to review the secondary property tax levy of county free library districts, county jail districts, and public health services districts. Beginning in tax year 2011, the maximum amount of a levy for these special districts cannot exceed the amount of the levy in the preceding tax year, adjusted annually by a percentage equal to the rate of change in the levy limit for the county in which the district is located.
ARS Titles Affected: 42 48
Comments: The bill passed the House Ways and Means committee on Feb 8th with an amendment that (according to the caucus fact sheet, "Specifies that levy limitations imposed on county free library districts do not apply to debt service on district bonds". It should be noted that versions of this bill have appeared in similar legislative sessions.

Good News! But keep up the good work for IMLS & LSTA!

2011-02-17T15:04:00.000-08:00

Good work, everybody! Because of ALA’s unprecedented grassroots efforts this week on amendment #35 to H.R. 1 (the Continuing Resolution to the FY2011 budget) was defeated! This victory for libraries is undoubtedly due to the strong grassroots efforts of librarians and library supporters all across the country.

As you recall, late Monday evening U.S. Rep. Scott Garrett (R-NJ-5) introduced an amendment that would eliminate all funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) including funding for the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), the primary source of federal dollars to libraries.

Today, as the U.S. House of Representatives wraps up floor debate on HR 1, Rep. Garrett has made it clear to us that he is no longer “pushing” for a vote on his amendment. Once the House passes H.R. 1, - likely today or tomorrow - the budget will be sent over to the Senate where they will have the opportunity to make amendments and vote on this year’s budget bill.

Even though we overcame this amendment, our work is not done. H.R. 1 still has to be approved by the Senate and signed by the President. Please tell your friends, library users and advocates that their voices will be needed on library issues in the weeks and months to come.

Also, libraries face cuts in President Obama’s FY2012 budget request sent to Congress on February 14. In his request, President Obama cuts funding to LSTA by $20 million as well as consolidates Improving Literacy Through School Libraries with other literacy programs in the Department of Education. ALA needs you to continue your calls to Congress in our fight to protect library funding in FY’12.

This is only the beginning; libraries will continue to be threatened in the next Congress. Now, more than ever, we need your participation on May 9-10, 2011 at ALA’s National Library Legislative Day in Washington D.C. where you will have the opportunity to meet with your members of Congress and explain to them why cutting library funding would be short-sighted. To register for NLLD, please go to www.ala.org/nlld.

Kristin Murphy

Government Relations Specialist

American Library Association - Washington Office

1615 New Hampshire Ave. NW, First Floor

Washington, D.C., 20009-2520

Phone Number: 202.628.8410

kmurphy@alawash.org

Take action for libraries! Visit our Legislative Action Center at http://bit.ly/legaction

Urgent Help Needed in Support of IMLS & LSTA

2011-02-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

This week, the House of Representatives will consider two amendments to the FY2011 Continuing Resolution that are critical to libraries – one that would eliminate all Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) funding including Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding and another that would halt all funding for Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) orders seeking libraries and bookstore records of U.S. citizens.

E-mail via Capwiz or call your representative at (202) 224-3121 today and tell him or her to oppose Amendment #35 to the Continuing Resolution!

Amendment #35, submitted by U.S. Rep. Scott Garret (R-NJ), seeks to zero out the Institute of Museum and Library Services, eliminating all federal funding specifically for libraries.

Message to Your Representative:

Libraries are essential to every community, and federal funding is critical for ensuring library resources and services remain available to their constituents.
LSTA supports all kinds of libraries including school, academic, and public libraries.
Public libraries are the primary source of no-fee access to the Internet and are active in assisting the public with online job searches, e-government services, and lifelong learning.
E-mail via Capwiz or call your representative at (202) 224-3121 today and tell him or her to support Conyers’ amendment to the Continuing Resolution!

This amendment, sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Conyers (D-MI), would halt all funding for FISA orders seeking libraries and bookstore records of U.S. citizens. Currently, this vote is scheduled for this Thursday, February 17.

Message to Your Representative:

Vote YES on the Conyers amendment to the FY2011 Continuing Resolution to halt funding for Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) orders that would seek library and bookstore records of U.S. citizens;
The Conyers amendment seeks to protect individual privacy and personal reading records from inappropriate access by law enforcement;
Like previous reader privacy bills, this amendment has bipartisan support;
Law enforcement access to the reading habits of individuals should be held to a higher legal standard in order to protect civil liberties and the right to read and access information.
In the weeks to come, extending your advocacy efforts to your senators as well as continuing to reach out to your representatives will be vitally important to protecting the future of libraries. Questions as well as reports and feedback from your calls and e-mails are welcomed. Please contact Kristin Murphy or Lynne Bradley at the ALA Office of Government Relations, Washington Office.

2011-02-09T14:26:00.000-08:00

From Lynne Bradley:

At this writing, it's the best of times, the worst of times...

MESSAGE TO ALL HOUSE MEMBERS: Although the House will vote on the rule (the procedures) for H.R. 514 tomorrow, the vote on the actual legislation will likely be scheduled for sometime next week. Continue to vote against H.R. 514. Support proposals such as those in S. 290 that would better protect civil liberties, reader privacy in particular, while extending the next sunset to December 2013.

MESSAGE TO SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE MEMBERS: "Please vote YES on S. 290 in committee markup. The bill provides reasonable changes to protect our civil liberties, including reader privacy protections, increases oversight and reporting while extending the sunsets until the end of 2013 to take PATRIOT debate out of election year politics. [ For previous report with specific talking points see: http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/advocacy/federallegislation/theusapatriotact/advocate/index.cfm ]

HOUSE: PATRIOT Act bill defeated for first time in the House!... at least, temporarily.

ALA has just heard, that the House of Representatives, which defeated H.R. 514, last night – will now have another vote tomorrow, Thursday, February 10th. H.R. 514 is a bill "To extend expiring provisions of the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reuathorization Act of 2005 and Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 relating to access to.....[http://www.thomas.gov/cgi-bin/thomas].

This bill would extend three sections of the USA PATRIOT Act, including Section 215, the business records section, often referred to as the "library provision." The final vote was a surprise outcome for the new Republican leadership - actually for many observers. The bill had been debated Tuesday on the House floor for less than an hour with the floor vote starting at 6:30 p.m. Because the bill was on suspension calendar it required a 2/3rd majority to pass - which did not happen. It is likely that the next House floor vote will be tomorrow, Thursday, February 10th. House leadership will bring the bill up on its regular agenda under rules that would allow for only a simple majority for passage.

The current sunset for the three expiring sections (Secton 215/business records, lone wolf and roving wiretaps provisions) is February 28, 2011, which means Congress must move quickly. H.R. 514 would establish a new sunset of December 8, 2011, without any amendments or changes. ALA supports defeat of this sunset bill and urges needed amendments to Section 215, and national security letters - which are in Senator Leahy's S. 290. [

Preliminary vote analysis suggests that many new House members supported the call from Rep. Ron Paul and other "libertarians" to minimize government controls in our lives. Stayed tune for more on House activities.

Summary Chart of vote on HR 514, February 8, 2011:

Yeas
Nays
PRES
NV

Republican
210
26
5

Democratic
67
122
4

Independent

TOTALS
277
148
9

SENATE:

There is no business meeting or markup scheduled this week in the Senate Judiciary Committee to address PATRIOT Act bills and the pending sunset of February 28. Last week Senator Leahy's bill, now S. 290, previously S. 193, was tabled. This tactic seems to support the Republican strategy of delaying any action on substantive changes to the three expiring sections (see above) so that one of the "mere sunset extension" bills would prevail. [ For previous report with specific talking points see: http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/advocacy/federallegislation/theusapatriotact/advocate/index.cfm ]

Standby for updates - while keeping messages going to House and Senate.

Press Release: Reader Privacy

2011-02-02T10:50:00.000-08:00

Dear colleagues,

A press release shared with division IFC liaisons by the Office for Intellectual Freedom.

Best wishes,

Melora Norman, ASCLA Liaison to IFC________________________________From: Deborah Caldwell-Stone [dstone@ala.org]Sent: Monday, January 31, 2011 5:28 PMTo: stateifc@ala.orgCc: divisionifc@ala.orgSubject: [divisionifc] Fw: Reader Privacy Advocates Urge Calls to CongressFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Oren Teicher (ABA), 800-637-0037, x 6611 Lynne Bradley (ALA) 800-941-8478 Judith Platt (AAP) 202-220-4551 Larry Siems (PEN) 212-334-1660 x 105READER PRIVACY ADVOCATES URGE CALLS TO CONGRESS WASHINGTON, DC, January 31, 2011—As debate begins in Washington again over the reauthorization of sections of the USA Patriot Act that expire on Feb. 28, the Campaign for Reader Privacy, representing librarians, booksellers, authors and publishers, urged its supporters today to ask their members of Congress to support the restoration of the safeguards for reader privacy that were eliminated by the Patriot Act in 2001. The Patriot Act authorizes the FBI to obtain secret orders to search any business or organization, including bookstores and libraries, whenever it is seeking records that are “relevant” to a national security investigation, including the records of people who are not suspected of criminal conduct. The Campaign for Reader Privacy is urging Congress to limit Patriot Act searches of bookstores and libraries to the records of “agents of a foreign power,” including suspected terrorists, and people who are known to them. The Campaign has endorsed a bill, S. 193, reintroduced last week by Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) that was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2009 when Congress last considered reauthorization. It provides important safeguards for library records. However, it does not provide additional protection for bookstore records.Barbara Jones, director of the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom, called on Congress to protect the privacy of reader records in bookstores as well as libraries. “We appreciate the heightened protection afforded library records for those Americans who borrow books. The next logical step would be to safeguard the First Amendment rights of Americans who purchase books in a bookstore. In both instances, reader privacy must be maintained," she said.The Campaign for Reader Privacy urges its supporters to contact their representatives in the House and the Senate. In the Senate, they should urge amendments to the Leahy bill to provide equal protection for library and bookstore records. In the House (where the only bill introduced so far calls for a one-year extension of the Patriot Act without any changes), they should demand substantive reform that will protect reader privacy.In contacting their representatives reader privacy advocates can strengthen their arguments by citing a recent letter from Attorney General Eric Holder. On December 9, in response to Leahy’s request, Holder promised to implement many of the reforms that were contained in Leahy’s 2009 reauthorization bill, including the provision strengthening reader privacy. Holder said the added protections would apply to both libraries and bookstores. “Taken together, I believe these measures will advance the goals of....enhancing the privacy and civil liberties our citizens enjoy without compromising our ability to keep our nation safe and secure,” Holder wrote.Supporters of reader privacy should tell their representatives that they can vote for these changes knowing that the Attorney General of the United States has said that they do not threaten national security and actually enhance privacy and civil liberties.The Campaign for Reader Privacy was organized in 2004 by the American Booksellers Association, the American Library Association, the Association of American Publishers, and PEN American Center. Its goal is to ensure that Americans can purchase and borrow books without fear that the government is reading over their shoulder.

2011-02-02T09:46:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the AzLA Legislative Network 2011!
This year's Legislative Committee includes: Nancy Ledeboer (AzLA President), Brenda Brown (Committee Chair), Dale Savage (ASLAPR), Angie Creel-Erb (Southern Regional Representative), Jacque Griffin (Central Regional Representative), Heidi Holland (Northern Regional Representative), David Gunckel (Sierra Vista Public Library) and AzLA Lobbyist Kristin Boilini.

UPDATE: MESA PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER LIBRARIANS

2008-06-27T11:14:00.000-07:00

Last night at the Mesa Public Schools Board meeting, the Board chose to eliminate all teacher-librarians over a 3 year period.
One-third of the schools in Mesa will not have librarians in 08-09. This includes Westwood High School, which hosts an International Baccalaureate program. Students in this program must complete a very involved senior thesis.
We will be monitoring Mesa Public Schools next year closely, and will continue to advocate for teacher-librarian funding at the state level.
Thank you to all who participated in advocating for students, through petition signing, rallying, and sending comments to the Mesa Governing Board.
Related press:
http://www.azcentral.com/community/mesa/articles/2008/06/25/20080625mr-budget0626.html
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2008/06/23/20080623budget0623.html
http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/119320

Letter from President about Mesa school librarians

2008-04-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

Greetings AzLA Members:
For those of you who have not heard, Mesa Public Schools, Arizona’s largest school district recently announced a three-year plan to eliminate all school librarian positions as part of a cost-savings measure. Additionally, school districts around the state continue reducing library services in an effort to balance their budgets.
In response to this alarming situation "Fund Our Future Arizona," a coalition of parents, businesses and other partners/endorsers, has been formed to launch a statewide effort to raise awareness for school libraries. The Arizona Library Association has responded by becoming an official Charter Member of "Fund Our Future Arizona". A petition has begun circulating to provide Arizona citizens a forum to voice their support, which I strongly encourage all members to sign. I have attached a press release with further information and contacts.
Visit http://www.fundourfuturearizona.org for more information!
Please join me in an effort to support our libraries, schools, and students!

SB 1256 Property Tax Update

2008-04-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Senate again failed to hold a vote on SB 1256: special districts; secondary levy limits (B. Burns) when a majority of senators told the bill's sponsor they planned to vote against the proposal. The bill, which would arbitrarily restrict county-controlled library, public health and jail districts to an annual increase of two percent plus new construction, has repeatedly been held back as Senate leadership attempts to corral the necessary votes.
After several months of negotiations on another property tax proposal, the Senate held a vote on HB 2220: state equalization property tax repeal (J. Weiers) when Senator Ken Cheuvront (D-15) changed his vote to allow the measure to pass. The permanent repeal of the state's education property tax rate had been stalled due to division in the Senate Republican caucus. If approved by Governor Napolitano, the proposal would permanently establish the property tax repeal that was suspended for three years in 2006. It is unclear whether or not the Governor will sign the legislation.

Teacher-Librarians: Take Action in Virtual Library Legislative Day

2008-04-09T15:38:00.000-07:00

Just one week from tomorrow on April 17, many librarians and library supporters will descend upon the Arizona State Legislature to demonstrate to our lawmakers just how important libraries are to our communities. Many battles are being waged in the Legislature this year, including minimizing cuts to the State Library, Archives, and Public Records and the new Archives building, and fighting the secondary property tax cap. While none of these issues are directly about school libraries or teacher-librarians, all of these issues either directly or indirectly impact school libraries and teacher-librarians.

This is why I am asking you to participate in Virtual Library Legislative Day.

You do not need to come to the Capitol. You do not need to take a personal day.

I am asking for a commitment of five minutes of your time. Five minutes for you to either call or email your two representatives and one senator and leave a message with his/her secretary.

I am asking you to leave this message:

I am a constituent of Representative/Senator __________. Arizona Revised Statute 15-362 allows school districts to hire anyone to operate a school library, regardless of training or preparation. Why are school libraries treated differently than classrooms in Arizona?

Imagine if each legislator received 10 calls about this on April 17. Imagine if they received 50! Imagine if they received 100!

It is up to you to make your voice heard on this important issue. Will YOU make the commitment to call on April 17?

Find your Representatives and Senator: http://tinyurl.com/3czx2l

Representative and Senator phone/email list: http://azleg.gov/MemberRoster.asp

ARS 15-362 http://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00362.htm

2008-04-03T11:47:00.000-07:00

You are cordially invited to participate in
Library Legislative Day

When: 9 to 4 p.m., Thursday, April 17, 2008
Where: Administrative Conference Room (2nd Floor)
What: Call your Representatives and Senator to schedule a personal appointment
Why: If we don’t speak up for libraries, who will?
Bring: Library supporters, library board members, Friends of your library, and

information about your library to add to your district packets.

Agenda
8:30 – 9:00 Registration – Pick up packets to deliver to legislators
9:00 – 9:15 Welcome and Introductions
Angela Creel-Erb, AzLA President
Senate President Timothy Bee (invited)
House Speaker James Weiers (invited)
9:15 – 9:30 Legislative Process
Mike Braun, Director, Legislative Council
9:30 – 9:55 Budget Process
Michael Hunter, Senior Policy Advisor for Budget & Finance
9:55 – 10:15 2008 Legislative Agenda
Brenda Brown, AzLALegislative Chair
Kristen Boilini, AzLA Lobbyist
10:15 – 11:30 Appointments with Legislators and Executive Staff
Appointments to be set by legislative day attendee in advance
11:30 – 1:00 Lunch with Legislators on the Senate Lawn
1:00 – 4:00 Appointments with Legislators and Executive Staff
Appointments to be set by legislative day attendee in advance
REGISTRATION FORM
THERE WILL BE A $10.00 REGISTRATION FEE FOR LEGISLATIVE DAY. THIS FEE WILL COVER YOUR BBQ LUNCH AND IS PAYABLE ONLY THE MORNING OF LEGISLATIVE DAY
Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Library Represented: _________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
City: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Home Phone: ________________________________________ Work Phone: ____________________________________
E-mail: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
Legislative Dist. # ____________________ Number in Party: ______________________

Fax your registration to 480-782-2823

Info: SCR 1028 Prohibiting Public Gifts

2008-03-31T10:00:00.000-07:00

The following letter from Ginny Hildebrand of the Association of Arizona Food Banks provides detail about a Senate Resolution that will prevent or limit public/private partnerships. We will provide more information when available.

Dear friends,
Last Wednesday, after receiving information from Community Food Bank of Tucson, written by Mark Clark a longtime advocate in Pima County, we became aware of a little known Senate Resolution to put a ballot initiative forward in AZ to amend the AZ Constitution to prohibit "public gifts, loans, donations or grants for ANY PUBLIC OR PRIVATE PURPOSE." This is SCR1028 (copy attached), sponsored by Senators Johnson, Cheuvront, Blendu and Gould. While we are told that the intention is to prevent public entities from giving away resources to private companies as means of incentives for them to do business in their communities or subdivisions, here at AAFB the language used in the bill put our red flags up immediately because we have very extensive public/private partnerships to deliver emergency and supplemental food services statewide. Without these partnerships – that include building, land, trucks, labor by prison and jail inmates, we would be hard-pressed to provide the level of services to needy Arizonans.
Today Mark Barnes, Laurie Foran and I met with Senator Debbie McCune-Davis, a member of the Senate Financial Institutions, Insurance, and Retirement Committee who heard this resolution a few weeks ago. While the Committee passed it on a 3-2 vote it has now gone to Senate Rules and is awaiting action there. Sen. McCune Davis at that hearing questioned the language of the bill as "being excessively broad." In speaking with her today, I brought up points such as:
* AZ has chosen to provide health and human services through a public/private partnership model. Excluding options to share space and resources could severely damage this type of service delivery.
* Many non-profits have benefitted from gifts of land, buildings, shared office space with any number of city, county, state or other subdivision of the state thereby enabling them to provide human and health service in a cost effective manner.
She is willing to go to Senate Leadership to ask that SCR1028 not be allowed to be put on the ballot due to the impact the wording could have on non-profit organizations in AZ. However, she would like a list of the relationships that are currently in place by organization or service sectors to show as an example of what could be impacted in the future, if a constitutional amendment such as this were approved.
Can you please help by providing information of this type to me to provide to Sen. McCune-Davis at your earliest possible convenience, but not later than next Friday 3/28/08, so that she can assist us in defeating SCR1028?
The types of examples we’re looking for are (this is just the beginning, not an exhaustive list):
A city or county that provides office space to a non-profit to provide some type of service for the public good
A city or county that gives land to a non-profit so that a building can be constructed to provide a service to the public
A city or county that provides the work of County Jail inmates to clean facilities or prepare facilities to be suitable for delivery of services to the public
State departments who are in partnership with non-profits to deliver public services (i.e. homeless shelters, domestic violence shelters, etc.)
Sen. McCune-Davis says we have a little time because Resolutions are not subject to the same time limitations as other bills in the Legislature. In fact, usually all the resolutions are gathered at one time and decided upon by the House & Senate Leadership, regarding which ones will move past the Rules Committee and to the next House of consideration and onto the ballot in November.
There may be other examples that will come to you, once you read the language of the resolution. Give me a call if you have any questions, but please send me any and all information you can by 3/28/08, close of business.
If we are not successful with this strategy, we may need to do some massive calling – phone & in person – to defeat this resolution BEFORE it gets on the ballot. You can just imagine the difficulty we’d have defeating this in a general election.
Thank you for your help, and I look forward to hearing from you.
P. S. If you know of others in the community you could pass this along to in order to get more input, please feel free to do so. Thank you.
Ginny
Ginny Hildebrand
Executive Director
Association of Arizona Food Banks

Request for Action to support Archives Building

2008-03-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

From: Doug Kupel
Date: Mar 29, 2008 7:50 AM

Friends -
There is a nice, long article about the impact of the budget cuts on
the state archives building in the March 28 edition of the Arizona
Capitol Times. You have to be a subscriber and registered on the
Capitol Times website to read the entire article on-line, but you can
look at the headline here:
http://azcapitoltimes.com/
It is important that we leverage this publicity in two ways:
1. Write a letter to the Capitol Times in support of proper funding
for the state archives building. This means limiting the budget cut
to $2 million or less. If the cut remains at $3.5 million there will
not be enough money to move the documents into the new building. You
can submit a letter via e-mail to: editor@azcapitoltimes.com or fax
it to (602) 253-7636. In your letter remind folks how long it has
taken Arizona to construct the new building and what a waste it would
be not to be able to use it. Each day of delay means continued
deterioration of valuable historic documents and artifacts.
2. Contact your legislators. Reference the article in the Capitol
Times and tell them the same message. It is very important that they
hear from a large number of people on this. If you need contact
information for legislators, go the the ALIS website:
http://www.azleg.gov/alisStaticPages/HowToContactMember.asp
Thanks very much for all your hard work over the years. We are very
close but need a little extra push right now.

Good News: HB 2586 Secondary Tax Limit - FAILED!

2008-03-20T16:45:00.001-07:00

HB2586 special districts; secondary levy limits
http://www.azleg.gov/DocumentsForBill.asp?Bill_Number=HB2586
THIRD READ
Vote Detail
DATE: 03/20/08
AYES: 22
NAYS: 34
NV: 4
EXC: 0
EMER AMEND: Y
RESULT: FAILED

Update on Archives Building, Please Contact Elects

2008-03-20T13:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends -
We now have some additional information about the impact of the budget
situation on the State Archives building. It is listed below in the form of
a message. Please consider sending this letter to your elected
representatives. While this is not the best situation, if the proposed $3.5
million cut can be reduced to $2 million or less it may be possible to
open the building on schedule in September of this year (2008). If you need
e-mail or address information, please check www.faza.net
thx
-----------------

The Honorable Representative or Senator
Arizona House or Senate
1700 W. Washington
Phoenix, AZ 85007

*RE: **Polly** **Rosenbaum** **State** Archives and **History** **Building*
**

Dear Representative or Senator:

In the two months since Governor Napolitano proposed a $3.5 million cut to
the Polly Rosenbaum State Archives Building, supporters of the project have
been working to determine what impact this cut would have.

While the $3.5 million cut would allow the building to be completed, it will
have serious negative consequences. It means that only half of the storage
space will have shelves, there will be no new furniture in the building,
there will be no money for security cameras, and there will be no money to
pull the computer wiring and cables thru the building.

Worst of all, there will be no money to move Arizona's historical documents
into the new building.

If the cut can be limited to $2 million or less there will be enough funding
to plan and execute a logical move into the new building. This will allow
the Library and Archives agency to prioritize which documents should be
moved first based on condition and preservation needs.

I understand that all Arizonans must make sacrifices to end the budget
crisis. However, cutting so much from the building that it cannot serve its
designed function is not a good use of public funds. Please limit the
archives building budget cut to $2 million or less.

Sincerely,

Your Name

Urgent Update on HB 2586-Calls & Emails Needed!

2008-03-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

HB 2586
Representative Yarborough wants HB 2586 it to be reconsidered again tomorrow. He's hoping that removing or exempting Fire Districts from the cap the bill will be pushed forward. We urgently need for calls or emails to be made to Representative Marian McClure (District 30, 602-926-3312, mmcclure@azleg.gov), John Paton (District 30, 602-926-3235, jpaton@azleg.gov( , and Bill Konopnicki (District 5, 602-926-5409, bkonopnicki@azleg.gov). As always, thank them for their hard work during these difficult time and ask them to keep in mind that even if fire districts are exempted from HB 2586, it will still have a serious detrimental affect on county services and our libraries. Ask them to visit the library the next time they are home!
We are almost there! Please rally your staff, friends, and customers to help! Thanks for all your help to date-your calls and emails make a big difference!

HB 2586-Letter from the County Supervisors Legislative Liaison

2008-03-19T11:26:00.000-07:00

Dear AzLA Members-the following letter from Beth Lewallen, Legislative Liaison for the County Supervisor's Assocation does a great job outlining the negative aspects of HB 2586:

Representative,
The County Supervisors Association is grateful for your opposition to HB 2586: special districts; secondary levy limits (Yarbrough), which failed yesterday on third read but will be reconsidered on Thursday. The proposal would impose arbitrary limitations on county-controlled special districts for jails, libraries and public health, and would significantly hinder counties' ability to meet constituent demands.
The sponsor has committed to amending the bill, removing limitations on fire districts in order to address public safety concerns, but we ask that you continue to oppose HB 2586 for the following reasons:
County-controlled public health districts are important to public safety, but will still be limited by arbitrary caps that do not reflect the high costs of disease prevention, Tuberculosis control and state-mandated food and restaurant inspections.
This proposal impacts the public health districts in Apache, Greenlee and Navajo counties.
County-controlled jail districts are important to public safety, but will still be limited by restrictions that do not allow for dramatic increases in the costs of criminal justice.
Apache County is the only jail district funded by property taxes.
The proposal’s funding formula for county-controlled special districts does not reflect local situations and needs. The levies of these special districts are for dedicated purposes, and county supervisors are accountable for setting the tax rates based on locally-informed decisions and priorities.
This negatively impacts rural Arizona. Maricopa County has voluntarily capped the increases on their special districts for the last two years, but rural areas are still working hard to build the infrastructure they need in order to meet the demands of population growth.
As outlined above, it is small counties whose jail and public health districts will be dramatically impacted by this proposal.
This negatively impacts libraries. The county-wide resources collected for libraries are a critical component of local funding; in Pima County, the county is responsible for funding the library system, while in other areas the county partners with cities and towns to provide the service. Rapid population growth creates the need for libraries to modernize their infrastructure in order to provide information and resources, such as Internet access and research tools for students.
Local officials are already accountable to their constituents for tax rates. County supervisors are required to implement state mandates at the local level, and are responsible for setting tax rates in order to cover the costs of the necessary county services. Arbitrary caps do not reflect the increased costs of important programs such as the protection of public health or library access.
This is not property tax reform. As amended, HB 2586 would limit 1.39% of this year’s secondary property taxes. It limits the special districts that have used taxpayer dollars responsibly, while deliberately ignoring the entities that have dramatically increased their budgets each year.
We ask for your continued opposition to HB 2586; please let me know if I can provide any additional information or assistance.
Sincerely,
Beth Lewallen
Legislative Liaison
County Supervisors Association of Arizona

HB 2586 Update

2008-03-19T07:34:00.001-07:00

The House Engrossed version of HB 2586 has been posted and is on ALIS under versions. This should make it easier to see how the floor amendment affected the introduced version of the bill. Having gone through it thoroughly, I could not find any changes other than those that you pointed out:
--the removal of flood control districts from the original bill and thus, the Property Tax Oversight commission, changes to the fire district levies, and more importantly: the fact that there must be a November election with a majority of qualified electors approving the formation of a district.
The Board must provide for and call for the election. On printed page 9 of the PDF Engrossed version, "shall" is changed to the Board of Directors MAY annually levy a tax after a country free library is established. It also reiterates that any library districts formed after December 31, 2008 must have tax levies approved by the electors. The other interesting effect of the engrossed version is that it changes the year that the maximum levy cannot exceed. The introduced version states that tax year 2008 levies cannot exceed the amount of the levy in 2007; the engrossed version states that the 2009 levies cannot exceed the preceeding tax year.
BILL: [number, title] HB 2586 SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS

House Appropriations Committee

2008-03-19T07:33:00.001-07:00

COMMITTEE: House Appropriations (Wednesday 03/12/08 at 1:30PM, House Rm. 1)
DAY: Wednesday
DATE: March 12, 2008
TIME: 1:30pm
ROOM: House Hearing Room 1
CHAIRMAN: Rep. Pearce
AGENDA: http://www.azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/agendas/0312014586%2Edoc%2Ehtm
BILL: [number, title] HB 2700 9/11 MONUMENT
link: http://www.azleg.gov/DocumentsForBill.asp?Bill_Number=2700
First sponsor: Rep. Kavanagh
Others: Rep. Ableser, Rep. Adams, Rep. Alvarez, Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Burges, Rep. Burns, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Cloves Campbell Jr., Rep. Chabin, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crandall, Rep. Crump, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Groe, Rep. Hershberger, Rep. Konopnicki, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. Mason, Rep. McClure, Rep. McComish, Rep. McGuire, Rep. McLain, Rep. Meza, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Nichols, Rep. Pancrazi, Rep. Paton, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Reagan, Rep. Rios, Rep. Robson, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Stump, Rep. Thrasher, Rep. Tobin, Rep. Tom, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Jerry Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Aboud, Sen. Aguirre, Sen. Arzberger, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burns, Sen. Cheuvront, Sen. Flake, Sen. Gorman, Sen. Gould, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Hale, Sen. Harper, Sen. Huppenthal, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Landrum Taylor, Sen. Leff, Sen. Miranda, Sen. O'Halleran, Sen. Pesquiera, Sen. Rios, Sen. Tibshraeny, Sen. Verschoor, Sen. Waring
LOLA Summary: The Dept of Administration shall remove the existing elevated descriptive panels from the monument dedicated to the commemoration of the events and effects of the attack on the U.S. on Sept. 11, 2001 and replace the panels with a description depicting the timeline of events that relate to the attack on the U.S. on that date. If the panels are not removed by Sept. 10, 2008, the Dept shall cover the existing panels from public view until replaced.
ARS Titles Affected: 41
Comments: As amended both in committee and on the floor by Rep. Kavanagh. His amendment makes the timeline "subject to review by AHAC. This bill is of interest due to its effect on a Wesley Bolen plaza memorial. This proposal received limited coverage Wednesday and appeared in the AZ Capitol Times breaking news section on the 30th of January.

Calendar: Senate COW Calendar #4

2008-03-19T07:30:00.000-07:00

link at: http://www.azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/calendar/s031304386.doc.htm
BILL: [number, title] SB 1337 CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION
link: http://www.azleg.gov/DocumentsForBill.asp?Bill_Number=1337
First sponsor: Sen. Flake
Others: Rep. Ableser, Rep. Adams, Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Burns, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Cloves Campbell Jr., Rep. Clark, Rep. Crandall, Rep. Crump, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Hershberger, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Konopnicki, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. Mason, Rep. McClure, Rep. McComish, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios, Rep. Robson, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Stump, Rep. Tobin, Rep. Tom, Rep. Jim Weiers, Sen. Aboud, Sen. Aguirre, Sen. Allen, Sen. Arzberger, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burton Cahill, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Hale, Sen. Harper, Sen. Huppenthal, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Landrum Taylor, Sen. Leff, Sen. McCune Davis, Sen. Miranda, Sen. Pesquiera, Sen. Rios, Sen. Soltero, Sen. Verschoor
LOLA Summary: Reallocates the $2.5 million appropriated in fiscal 2006-2007 to legislative council as follows: 1) $2,050,000 to the Historical Advisory Commission; and 2) $450,000 to legislative council. Emergency clause.
ARS Titles Affected: 41
Comments: This bill apparently would carve out 450,000 dollars from the prior AZ Centennial appropriations for "costs of the design and site preparation of the renovation of the state capitol building" and put the money under control of Leg Council. There may be other effects of the reappropriation.

Status of Secondary Tax District Limits

2008-03-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

Secondary District Limitations
The Senate Committee of the Whole approved SB 1256: special districts; secondary levy limits (B. Burns) but the proposal was held back from going to a vote from the full Senate on Thursday. The House version of the proposal, HB 2586 (Yarbrough) also is awaiting a vote.

AzLA Bill Summaries March 10, 2008

2008-03-10T11:04:00.001-07:00

AzLA: Posted Calendars and Committee Hearings

S1256: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Calendar: 3/11 Senate COW

S1337: CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION
Calendar: 3/11 Senate COW

AzLA: Bill Summaries

H2098: CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS
Makes permanent the tax credit available for voluntary cash contribution to a school tuition
organization. Otherwise scheduled to repeal on June 30, 2011.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2098 Daily History Date Action
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/17 from House ways-means do pass.
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2099: PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION
Allows insurance companies to contribute to school tuition organizations and receive a tax credit
against their premium tax liability. AS PASSED HOUSE.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2099 Daily History Date Action
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 3/6 referred to Senate fin.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 3/3 passed House 32-27; ready for Senate.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/7 House COW approved with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/5 from House rules okay.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/29 from House ways-means with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/28 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/17 House ways-means held.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2100: TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION
An employee may request that his/her employer reduce the amount of the employee's withholding tax by the amount of credit the employee will qualify for contributions to a qualified school tuition organization or public school. Expands the list of confidential taxpayer information to include information supplied by an employee to an employer regarding the employee's election to have his/her withholding tax reduced for the purposes of contributions to qualified school tuition organizations or public schools. Effective January 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy

H2100 Daily History Date Action
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/5 from House ways-means with amend #4042.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/4 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2162: TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES
Minor change in statutes dealing with the Department of Library, Archives and Public Records.
Apparent striker bus.

First sponsor: Rep. Adams

H2162 Daily History Date Action
TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES 1/15 referred to House rules only.

H2586: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Aggregate maximums for the secondary property tax levy of certain special district (including, fire district, flood control district and jail district) are established for tax year 2008 and each year thereafter, using a formula based on the previous year’s levy amount. Districts may ask the voters to authorize a secondary property tax levy that exceeds the aggregate maximum, subject to specified limitations. The Property Tax Oversight Commission is required to review the secondary property tax levy of certain special taxing districts to determine violations of levy limits. Districts may appeal the Commission’s finding.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Murphy

H2586 Daily History Date Action
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 3/4 House COW approved with floor amend #4480, a substitute for amend 4046.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/28 retained on House COW calendar.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/21 retained on House COW calendar.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/19 from House rules okay.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/4 from House ways-means with amend #4046.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 1/29 referred to House ways-means.

H2779: HIGHER EDUCATION; INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS; ACCESSIBILITY
Publishers of textbooks and other educational materials in use in the state must, on request, provide versions in accessible formats. Refusal by a publisher may result in student pursuing a private right of action.

First sponsor: Rep. Ableser
Others: Rep. Alvarez, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Chabin, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Garcia, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. McGuire, Rep. Meza, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Pancrazi, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Thrasher, Rep. Young Wright

H2779 Daily History Date Action
HIGHER EDUCATION; INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS; ACCESSIBILITY 2/11 referred to House higher ed, com, gov.

H2857: FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS
Various adjustments to budget line items, totaling $582.5 million in savings. Provisions include encumbering monies in various funds (preparatory to being swept into the general fund) and various amounts appropriated to state agencies may not be spent. Some appropriations are delayed, e.g., $10 million for construction of a veterans' home in Tucson is delayed from fiscal '07 to fiscal '09. Also contains some supplemental appropriations, including $13 million to AHCCCS. AS PASSED HOUSE.

First sponsor: Rep. Boone

H2857 Daily History Date Action
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 3/6 substituted in Senate for identical S1300 and passed 17-13; ready for governor.
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 3/6 from House rules with a technical amendment. House COW approved with floor amend #4547, a substitute for amend 4234; the rules tech amendment was withdrawn. Passed House 33-24; ready for Senate.
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/20 from House appro with amend #4234.
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/20 House appro amended; report awaited.
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/18 referred to House appro.

HCR2003: PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the constitution to limit the annual increase in real property values for tax purposes to 3%.

First sponsor: Rep. McClure

HCR2003 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

HCR2038: STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to reduce the total amount of state appropriations to 6.4% of the state's total personal income. Previously, the appropriation limit was 7%. No adjustment shall be made to the appropriations limit in order to account for a transfer of government functions. Effective for fiscal years beginning on and after July 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2038 Daily History Date Action
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/13 from House appro do pass.
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/6 referred to House appro.

HCR2040: SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require the state's annual budget to be balanced, that annual expenditures not exceed annual revenues, that there must a year-end cash balance of at least 1% of the general fund balance, and that state obligations do not exceed ongoing or permanent state revenue.
Beginning on January 1, 2010, the state treasurer and each county treasurer must establish a website containing a searchable database of revenues and expenditures.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McComish, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Robson, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2040 Daily History Date Action
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/20 from House appro with amend #4239.
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/13 House appro held.
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/6 referred to House appro.

S1002: PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL
Makes permanent the 3 year suspension of the state equalization property tax. [Capitol Reports
note: the suspension is due to expire in 2009. This tax is also called the county equalization assistance for education property tax].

First sponsor: Sen. Waring
Others: Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. McComish, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Robson, Rep. Jerry Weiers, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burns, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Harper

S1002 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/31 Senate COW approved with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/29 from Senate rules okay.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/17 from Senate fin with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/16 Senate fin amended; report awaited.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/14 referred to Senate fin.

S1256: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Limits the annual increase in the maximum secondary tax levy permissible to certain special districts (including, fire district, county TV district, flood control district, jail district, etc). The list of duties of the Property Tax Oversight Commission is expanded to include reviewing the secondary property tax levies of these special districts to ensure compliance.

First sponsor: Sen. Burns
Others: Sen. Gorman, Sen. Harper

S1256 Daily History Date Action
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/12 from Senate rules okay.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/7 from Senate fin with amend #4072.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

S1337: CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION
Reallocates the $2.5 million appropriated in fiscal 2006-2007 to legislative council as follows:
1) $2,050,000 to the Historical Advisory Commission; and 2) $450,000 to legislative council. Emergency clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Flake
Others: Rep. Ableser, Rep. Adams, Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Burns, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Cloves Campbell Jr., Rep. Clark, Rep. Crandall, Rep. Crump, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Hershberger, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Konopnicki, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. Mason, Rep. McClure, Rep. McComish, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios, Rep. Robson, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Stump, Rep. Tobin, Rep. Tom, Rep. Jim Weiers, Sen. Aboud, Sen. Aguirre, Sen. Allen, Sen. Arzberger, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burton Cahill, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Hale, Sen. Harper, Sen. Huppenthal, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Landrum Taylor, Sen. Leff, Sen. McCune Davis, Sen. Miranda, Sen. Pesquiera, Sen. Rios, Sen. Soltero, Sen. Verschoor

S1337 Daily History Date Action
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 3/4 stricken from Senate consent calendar by Gould.
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 3/4 from Senate rules okay.
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 3/3 to Senate consent calendar.
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 2/27 from Senate appro do pass.
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 2/26 Senate appro do pass; report awaited.
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 2/4 referred to Senate appro.

S1398: PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS
Establishes regulations for partnerships between any state department or agency or any political subdivision of this state and a private entity.

First sponsor: Sen. Johnson
Others: Sen. Aboud, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Gould, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Verschoor

S1398 Daily History Date Action
PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS 2/19 from Senate gov do pass.
PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS 2/6 referred to Senate gov.

S1409: INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL
Beginning tax year 2009, the Arizona individual income tax is repealed. Session law directs Legislative Council to prepare conforming legislation.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

S1409 Daily History Date Action
INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/6 referred to Senate fin.

S1475: PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION
Various changes in statutes pertaining to property taxation, including elimination of all statutory references to the transportation revenue control limit, restricting the expenses that a district may claim as desegregation costs, no district may claim deseg expenses greater than the amount claimed in fiscal 07-08, taxes levied for budget overrides in any year may not exceed the levy in the first year of the override without securing voter approval; elimination of the county equalization assistance for education tax, the secondary tax levy of selected special districts may not increase more than 2% and the Property Tax Oversight Commission must review the levies to insure compliance. More.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor
Others: Rep. Pearce, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Huppenthal

S1475 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION 2/11 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1018: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require that the annual change in property values for property tax purposes be equal to the change in the GDP price deflator from the previous year.

First sponsor: Sen. Huppenthal

SCR1018 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1022: INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to phase out the state income tax (both individual and corporate) so that by Jan 1,
2013, no governmental entity shall assess or collect a tax based on income. The Legislature is authorized to increase sales and use taxes to compensate for the loss in revenue and such measures are exempt from Prop 108 that would otherwise require a 2/3 majority in each house for passage.

First sponsor: Sen. Chuck Gray
Others: Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1022 Daily History Date Action
INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1024: PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require all taxing jurisdictions to set their 2009 levy no higher than the actual levy in 2005 and that beginning in 2010, they must limit the annual increase in tax levies to 2% plus the value of new construction. Levies exceeding the 2% limit may be enacted only by a 2/3 vote of the qualified electors. A petition to reduce a jurisdiction's levy limit by up to 20% that is signed by 10% of the electors in the district will require an election to be held at the next general election. Severability clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Rep. Pearce, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Harper, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1024 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1025: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to limit the annual increase in property values (for property tax purposes) to 2%.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Sen. Harper

SCR1025 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1029: CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to repeal statutes relating to the corporate income tax. Legislative Council is directed to prepare conforming legislation for consideration next year.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

SCR1029 Daily History Date Action
CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/12 referred to Senate fin.

House, Senate Debate Caps on Secondary Tax Districts

2008-03-10T07:52:00.000-07:00

Proposed caps on special districts became a prominent topic at the legislature this week, as the House and Senate considered identical proposals that would establish additional limitations on county-controlled districts.

The House allowed HB 2586 to move through the Committee of the Whole, where it was amended to remove limitations on flood control districts and expand the restrictions on fire districts to 10 percent annual growth. The Senate is expected to consider the same amendment to SB 1256 next week, though the Senate Republican caucus had a lengthy debate on how this proposal fits into a broader property tax reform discussion.

If enacted, HB 2586 and SB 1256 would place additional caps on the growth of levies for library, flood control and public health districts. While the bill's supporters frame the proposals as an appropriate step toward property tax limitations, opponents of the measure recognize the significant problems that arise from mandating a universal cap on flood control, library, and public health services.

Budget Update: Spending "Freeze"

2008-03-10T07:51:00.000-07:00

Despite slow progress on bi-partisan budget negotiations, Republicans in the House and Senate moved forward this week on a "freeze" of some funds and state agency budgets. The freeze is intended to prevent additional spending, so when a budget agreement is reached there will be enough funds and appropriations to cut in order to address the FY08 budget deficit. Democrats in both chambers strongly objected to the proposal and claimed it distracted legislators from an "actual" budget solution.

The proposal would freeze approximately $323 million in fund sweeps and $212 million in FY08 appropriations. It does not address the full FY08 deficit, which is projected to be over $1.25 billion; additional options are expected to be contained in a negotiated budget agreement. The proposal does not include $615 million that was previously proposed from the state's rainy day fund. Some Republicans had objected to the idea of sweeping all the resources from the rainy day fund in FY08, when many project budget downturns for the next several years.

The House and Senate both approved the proposal (HB 2857) on a party-line vote; there has been no signal that Governor Napolitano supports the proposed freeze, but the bill will likely be sent to her desk early next week.

County Supervisors Progress Report

2008-03-10T07:37:00.000-07:00

HB 2113: municipal annexation; finality (McClure) - Passed House caucuses and forwarded to the House Committee of the Whole.
HB 2155: transfer of development rights (Paton) - Passed House caucuses and was forwarded to House third read.
HB 2193: county minutes; publication (Nelson) - The strike-everything amendment passed House CMMA 7-0; forwarded to the full House for consideration.
HB 2333: county powers; outdoor fires (Mason) - Passed House Committee of the Whole and was forwarded to House third read.
HB 2378: counties; debit card acceptance (DeSimone) - Will be heard in Senate FIIR Monday, March 10 at 1:30 p.m.
HB 2420: flood control districts; property (Nelson) - Will be heard in Senate NRRA on Wednesday, March 12 at 1:30 p.m.
HB 2426: waste tire collection sites (Barnes) - Passed House Environment 7-0, and was forwarded to the full House for consideration.
SB 1288: local stormwater quality programs (Flake) - A strike-everything amendment passed Senate NRRA by a vote of 6-1; forwarded to the full Senate for consideration.
Top

AzLA Bill Summaries February 29

2008-02-29T13:19:00.000-08:00

Arizona Library Association
48th Legislature - 2nd Regular Session, 2008 Friday, February 15, 2008

AzLA: Posted Calendars and Committee Hearings

H2586: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Calendar: 3/3 House COW

AzLA: Bill Summaries

H2098: CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS
Makes permanent the tax credit available for voluntary cash contribution to a school tuition organization. Otherwise scheduled to repeal on June 30, 2011.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2098 Daily History Date Action:
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/17 from House ways-means do pass.
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/14 referred to House ways means.

H2099: PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION
Allows insurance companies to contribute to school tuition organizations and receive a tax credit against their premium tax liability.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2099 Daily History Date Action:
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/7 House COW approved with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/5 from House rules okay.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/29 from House ways-means with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/28 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/17 House ways-means held.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2100: TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION
An employee may request that his/her employer reduce the amount of the employee's withholding tax by the amount of credit the employee will qualify for for contributions to a qualified school tuition organization or public school. Expands the list of confidential taxpayer information to include information supplied by an employee to an employer regarding the employee's election tohave his/her withholding tax reduced for the purposes of contributions to qualified school tuition organizations or public schools. Effective January 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy

H2100 Daily History Date Action:
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/5 from House ways-means with amend #4042.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/4 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2162: TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES
Minor change in statutes dealing with the Department of Library, Archives and Public Records. Apparent striker bus.

First sponsor: Rep. Adams

H2162 Daily History Date Action:
TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES 1/15 referred to House rules only.

H2586: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Aggregate maximums for the secondary property tax levy of certain special district (including, fire district, flood control district and jail district) are established for tax year 2008 and each year thereafter, using a formula based on the previous year’s levy amount. Districts may ask the voters to authorize a secondary property tax levy that exceeds the aggregate maximum, subject to specified limitations. The Property Tax Oversight Commission is required to review the secondary property tax levy of certain special taxing districts to determine violations of levy limits. Districts may appeal the Commission’s finding.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Murphy

H2586 Daily History Date Action:
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/28 retained on House COW calendar.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/21 retained on House COW calendar.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/19 from House rules okay.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/4 from House ways-means with amend #4046.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 1/29 referred to House ways-means.

H2779: HIGHER EDUCATION; INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS; ACCESSIBILITY
Publishers of textbooks and other educational materials in use in the state must, on request, provide versions in accessible formats. Refusal by a publisher may result in student pursuing a private right of action.

First sponsor: Rep. Ableser
Others: Rep. Alvarez, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Chabin, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Garcia, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. McGuire, Rep. Meza, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Pancrazi, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Thrasher, Rep. Young Wright

H2779 Daily History Date Action:
HIGHER EDUCATION; INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS; ACCESSIBILITY 2/11 referred to
House higher ed, com, gov.

H2857: FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS
Required reductions (totaling $230.8 million) in appropriations to 53 state agencies in fiscal
07-08, including $47 million from the School Facilities Board, $37.4 million from the Dept of
Education, $30.3 million from the Dept of Economic Security, $25 million (aggregate) from all 3 state universities, and $22.3 million from the Dept of Corrections. Smallest adjustment is $2,000 from the Law Enforcement Merit System Council. The following programs are protected from budget cuts: Child Protective Service, DES services to developmentally disabled, Gang and Immigration Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission (GIITEM), and abstinence funding. Various fund transfers, including $615 from the Budget Stabilization Fund and authorization for Clean Elections to transfer $20 million to the general fund. Various unexpended and unencumbered balances in funds are swept into the general fund. Also includes supplemental appropriations: $19 million to the Dept of Health Services and $13 million to AHCCCS. Appropriations for various capital projects in the original budget for fiscal 07-08 are reduced or delayed until fiscal 08-09.

First sponsor: Rep. Boone

H2857 Daily History Date Action:
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/20 from House appro with amend #4234.
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/20 House appro amended; report awaited.
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/18 referred to House appro.

HCR2003: PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the constitution to limit the annual increase in real property values for tax purposes to 3%.

First sponsor: Rep. McClure

HCR2003 Daily History Date Action:
PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

HCR2038: STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to reduce the total amount of state appropriations to 6.4% of the state's total personal income. Previously, the appropriation limit was 7%. No adjustment shall be made to the appropriations limit in order to account for a transfer of government functions. Effective for fiscal years beginning on and after July 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2038 Daily History Date Action:
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/13 from House appro do pass.
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/6 referred to House appro.

HCR2040: SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require the state's annual budget to be balanced, that annual expenditures not exceed annual revenues, that there must a year-end cash balance of at least 1% of the general fund balance, and that state obligations do not exceed ongoing or permanent state revenue.
Beginning on January 1, 2010, the state treasurer and each county treasurer must establish a website containing a searchable database of revenues and expenditures.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McComish, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Robson, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2040 Daily History Date Action:
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/20 from House appro with amend #4239.
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/13 House appro held.
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/6 referred to House appro.
S1002: PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL
Makes permanent the 3 year suspension of the state equalization property tax. [Capitol Reports note: the suspension is due to expire in 2009. This tax is also called the county equalization assistance for education property tax].

First sponsor: Sen. Waring
Others: Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. McComish, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Robson, Rep. Jerry Weiers, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burns, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Harper

S1002 Daily History Date Action:
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/31 Senate COW approved with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/29 from Senate rules okay.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/17 from Senate fin with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/16 Senate fin amended; report awaited.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/14 referred to Senate fin.

S1256: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Limits the annual increase in the maximum secondary tax levy permissible to certain special districts (including, fire district, county TV district, flood control district, jail district, etc). The list of duties of the Property Tax Oversight Commission is expanded to include reviewing the secondary property tax levies of these special districts to ensure compliance.

First sponsor: Sen. Burns
Others: Sen. Gorman, Sen. Harper

S1256 Daily History Date Action:
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/12 from Senate rules okay.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/7 from Senate fin with amend #4072.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

S1337: CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION
Reallocates the $2.5 million appropriated in fiscal 2006-2007 to legislative council as follows: 1) $2,050,000 to the Historical Advisory Commission; and 2) $450,000 to legislative council. Emergency clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Flake
Others: Rep. Ableser, Rep. Adams, Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Burns, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Cloves Campbell Jr., Rep. Clark, Rep. Crandall, Rep. Crump, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Hershberger, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Konopnicki, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan,
Rep. Mason, Rep. McClure, Rep. McComish, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios,
Rep. Robson, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Stump, Rep. Tobin, Rep. Tom, Rep. Jim Weiers, Sen. Aboud, Sen. Aguirre, Sen. Allen, Sen. Arzberger, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burton Cahill, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Hale, Sen. Harper, Sen. Huppenthal, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Landrum Taylor, Sen. Leff, Sen. McCune Davis, Sen. Miranda, Sen. Pesquiera, Sen. Rios, Sen. Soltero, Sen. Verschoor

S1337 Daily History Date Action:
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 2/27 from Senate appro do pass.
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 2/26 Senate appro do pass; report
awaited.
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 2/4 referred to Senate appro.

S1398: PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS
Establishes regulations for partnerships between any state department or agency or any political subdivision of this state and a private entity.

First sponsor: Sen. Johnson
Others: Sen. Aboud, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Gould, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Verschoor

S1398 Daily History Date Action:
PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS 2/19 from Senate gov do pass.
PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS 2/6 referred to Senate gov.

S1409: INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL
Beginning tax year 2009, the Arizona individual income tax is repealed. Session law directs Legislative Council to prepare conforming legislation.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

S1409 Daily History Date Action:
INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/6 referred to Senate fin.

S1475: PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION
Various changes in statutes pertaining to property taxation, including elimination of all statutory references to the transportation revenue control limit, restricting the expenses that a district may claim as desegregation costs, no district may claim deseg expenses greater than the amount claimed in fiscal 07-08, taxes levied for budget overrides in any year may not exceed the levy in the first year of the override without securing voter approval; elimination of the county equalization assistance for education tax, the secondary tax levy of selected special districts may not increase more than 2% and the Property Tax Oversight Commission must review the levies to insure compliance. More.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor
Others: Rep. Pearce, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Huppenthal

S1475 Daily History Date Action:
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION 2/11 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1018: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to require that the annual change in property values for property tax purposes be equal to the change in the GDP price deflator from the previous year.

First sponsor: Sen. Huppenthal

SCR1018 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1022: INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to phase out the state income tax (both individual and corporate) so that by Jan 1,
2013, no governmental entity shall assess or collect a tax based on income. The Legislature is authorized to increase sales and use taxes to compensate for the loss in revenue and such measures are exempt from Prop 108 that would otherwise require a 2/3 majority in each house for passage.

First sponsor: Sen. Chuck Gray
Others: Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1022 Daily History Date Action:
INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1024: PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require all taxing jurisdictions to set their 2009 levy no higher than the actual levy in 2005 and that beginning in 2010, they must limit the annual increase in tax levies to 2% plus the value of new construction. Levies exceeding the 2% limit may be enacted only by a 2/3 vote of the qualified electors. A petition to reduce a jurisdiction's levy limit by up to 20% that is signed by 10% of the electors in the district will require an election to be held at the next general election. Severability clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Rep. Pearce, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Harper, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1024 Daily History Date Action:
PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1025: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to limit the annual increase in property values (for property tax purposes) to 2%.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Sen. Harper

SCR1025 Daily History Date Action:
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1029: CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to repeal statutes relating to the corporate income tax. Legislative Council is directed to prepare conforming legislation for consideration next year.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

SCR1029 Daily History Date Action:
CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/12 referred to Senate fin.

Update on HB 2586-Secondary Tax Cap

2008-02-27T12:28:00.000-08:00

According to the calendar, HB 2586 is scheduled for COW (Committee of the Whole) tomorrow, Thursday 2/28/08.
Rep. Konopnicki is planning to offer a floor amendment that would remove flood districts and library districts from the legislation.
The Fire Fighters are having an emergency meeting this Friday regarding this bill. They had previously cut a deal to support the bill and cap at 10%. However, they will be having the emergency meeting to discuss the option to rescind the deal and fight to kill the bill.
Several rural legislators are supporting Konopnicki on his efforts, so thank you for getting the word out to members to communicate to their legislators on this and we should thank legislators who support the opposition to the measure.

Urgent Update-Property Tax Initiative

2008-02-22T18:15:00.000-08:00

The relevant bills (HB 2586 & SB 1256) were held back from the Consent of the Whole (COW) agenda Thursday, February 21, inasmuch as the constituent pressure for defeat has been enormous thus far. This means that the bills are retained on the COW calendar. The support doesn’t seem to be there to pass them, and we have the proposed amendment to strip the libraries out as well. We need to keep up the pressure! Calls and emails requesting that libraries be removed from the House Bill 2586l need to go to Reps Mason and Tobin (both from Prescott), Jennifer Burns and Marion McClure. Please share opinions with Senator Jake Flake as well.

AzLA Bill Summaries February 21

2008-02-22T06:38:00.001-08:00

Arizona Library Association
48th Legislature - 2nd Regular Session, 2008 Thursday, Feb 21 2008 2:15 PM

Bill summaries and histories copyright ©2007 Arizona Capitol Reports, L.L.C.

AzLA: Bill Summaries

H2098: CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS
Makes permanent the tax credit available for voluntary cash contribution to a school tuition organization. Otherwise scheduled to repeal on June 30, 2011.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2098 Daily History Date Action
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/17 from House ways means do pass.
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2099: PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION
Allows insurance companies to contribute to school tuition organizations and receive a tax credit against their premium tax liability.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2099 Daily History Date Action
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/7 House COW approved with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/5 from House rules okay.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/29 from House ways-means with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/28 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/17 House ways-means held.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2100: TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION
An employee may request that his/her employer reduce the amount of the employee's withholding tax by the amount of credit the employee will qualify for for contributions to a qualified school tuition organization or public school. Expands the list of confidential taxpayer information to include information supplied by an employee to an employer regarding the employee's election to have his/her withholding tax reduced for the purposes of contributions to qualified school tuition organizations or public schools. Effective January 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy

H2100 Daily History Date Action
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/5 from House ways-means with amend #4042.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/4 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 1/14 referred to House ways means.

H2162: TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES
Minor change in statutes dealing with the Department of Library, Archives and Public Records. Apparent striker bus.

First sponsor: Rep. Adams

H2162 Daily History Date Action
TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES 1/15 referred to House rules
only.

H2779: HIGHER EDUCATION; INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS; ACCESSIBILITY
Publishers of textbooks and other educational materials in use in the state must, on request, provide versions in accessible formats. Refusal by a publisher may result in student pursuing a private right of action.

First sponsor: Rep. Ableser
Others: Rep. Alvarez, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Chabin, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Garcia, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. McGuire, Rep. Meza, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Pancrazi, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Thrasher, Rep. Young Wright

H2779 Daily History Date Action
HIGHER EDUCATION; INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS; ACCESSIBILITY 2/11 referred to House higher ed, com, gov.

H2857: FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS
Required reductions (totaling $230.8 million) in appropriations to 53 state agencies in fiscal 07-08, including $47 million from the School Facilities Board, $37.4 million from the Dept of Education, $30.3 million from the Dept of Economic Security, $25 million (aggregate) from all 3 state universities, and $22.3 million from the Dept of Corrections. Smallest adjustment is $2,000 from the Law Enforcement Merit System Council. The following programs are protected from budget cuts: Child Protective Service, DES services to developmentally disabled, Gang and Immigration Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission (GIITEM), and abstinence funding. Various fund transfers, including $615 from the Budget Stabilization Fund and authorization for Clean Elections to transfer $20 million to the general fund. Various unexpended and unencumbered balances in funds are swept into the general fund. Also includes supplemental appropriations: $19 million to the Dept of Health Services and $13 million to AHCCCS. Appropriations for various capital projects in the original budget for fiscal 07-08 are reduced or delayed until fiscal 08-09.

First sponsor: Rep. Boone

H2857 Daily History Date Action
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/20 from House appro with amend #4234.
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/20 House appro amended; report awaited.
FY 07-08 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS 2/18 referred to House appro.

HCR2003: PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the constitution to limit the annual increase in real property values for tax purposes to 3%.

First sponsor: Rep. McClure

HCR2003 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

HCR2038: STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to reduce the total amount of state appropriations to 6.4% of the state's total personal income. Previously, the appropriation limit was 7%. No adjustment shall be made to the appropriations limit in order to account for a transfer of government functions. Effective for fiscal years beginning on and after July 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh,
Rep. Murphy, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2038 Daily History Date Action
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/13 from House appro do pass.
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/6 referred to House appro.

HCR2040: SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require the state's annual budget to be balanced, that annual expenditures not exceed annual revenues, that there must a year-end cash balance of at least 1% of the general fund balance, and that state obligations do not exceed ongoing or permanent state revenue. Beginning on January 1, 2010, the state treasurer and each county treasurer must establish a website containing a searchable database of revenues and expenditures.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McComish, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Robson, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2040 Daily History Date Action
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/20 from House appro with amend #4239.
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/13 House apron held.
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/6 referred to House appro.

S1002: PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL
Makes permanent the 3 year suspension of the state equalization property tax. [Capitol Reports note: the suspension is due to expire in 2009. This tax is also called the county equalization assistance for education property tax].

First sponsor: Sen. Waring
Others: Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. McComish, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Robson, Rep. Jerry Weiers, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burns, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Harper

S1002 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/31 Senate COW approved with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/29 from Senate rules okay.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/17 from Senate fin with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/16 Senate fin amended; report awaited.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/14 referred to Senate fin.

S1256: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Limits the annual increase in the maximum secondary tax levy permissible to certain special districts (including, fire district, county TV district, flood control district, jail district, etc). The list of duties of the Property Tax Oversight Commission is expanded to include reviewing the secondary property tax levies of these special districts to ensure compliance.

First sponsor: Sen. Burns
Others: Sen. Gorman, Sen. Harper

S1256 Daily History Date Action
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/12 from Senate rules okay.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/7 from Senate fin with amend #4072.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

S1337: CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION
Reallocates the $2.5 million appropriated in fiscal 2006-2007 to legislative council as follows: 1) $2,050,000 to the Historical Advisory Commission; and 2) $450,000 to legislative council. Emergency clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Flake
Others: Rep. Ableser, Rep. Adams, Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Burns, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Cloves Campbell Jr., Rep. Clark, Rep. Crandall, Rep. Crump, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Hershberger, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Konopnicki, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. Mason, Rep. McClure, Rep. McComish, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios,
Rep. Robson, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Stump, Rep. Tobin, Rep. Tom, Rep. Jim Weiers, Sen. Aboud, Sen. Aguirre, Sen. Allen, Sen. Arzberger, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burton Cahill, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Hale, Sen. Harper, Sen. Huppenthal, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Landrum Taylor, Sen. Leff, Sen. McCune Davis, Sen. Miranda, Sen. Pesquiera, Sen. Rios, Sen. Soltero, Sen. Verschoor

S1337 Daily History Date Action
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 2/4 referred to Senate appro.

S1398: PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS
Establishes regulations for partnerships between any state department or agency or any political subdivision of this state and a private entity.

First sponsor: Sen. Johnson
Others: Sen. Aboud, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Gould, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Verschoor

S1398 Daily History Date Action
PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS 2/19 from Senate gov do pass.
PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS 2/6 referred to Senate gov.

S1409: INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL
Beginning tax year 2009, the Arizona individual income tax is repealed. Session law directs Legislative Council to prepare conforming legislation.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

S1409 Daily History Date Action
INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/6 referred to Senate fin.

S1475: PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION
Various changes in statutes pertaining to property taxation, including elimination of all statutory references to the transportation revenue control limit, restricting the expenses that a district may claim as desegregation costs, no district may claim deseg expenses greater than the amount claimed in fiscal 07-08, taxes levied for budget overrides in any year may not exceed the levy in the first year of the override without securing voter approval; elimination of the county equalization assistance for education tax, the secondary tax levy of selected special districts may not increase more than 2% and the Property Tax Oversight Commission must review the levies to insure compliance. More.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor
Others: Rep. Pearce, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Huppenthal

S1475 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION 2/11 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1018: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require that the annual change in property values for property tax purposes be equal to the change in the GDP price deflator from the previous year.

First sponsor: Sen. Huppenthal

SCR1018 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1022: INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to phase out the state income tax (both individual and corporate) so that by Jan 1, 2013, no governmental entity shall assess or collect a tax based on income. The Legislature is authorized to increase sales and use taxes to compensate for the loss in revenue and such measures are exempt from Prop 108 that would otherwise require a 2/3 majority in each house for passage.

First sponsor: Sen. Chuck Gray
Others: Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1022 Daily History Date Action
INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1024: PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require all taxing jurisdictions to set their 2009 levy no higher than the actual levy in 2005 and that beginning in 2010, they must limit the annual increase in tax levies to 2% plus the value of new construction. Levies exceeding the 2% limit may be enacted only by a 2/3 vote of the qualified electors. A petition to reduce a jurisdiction's levy limit by up to 20% that is signed by 10% of the electors in the district will require an election to be held at the next general election. Severability clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Rep. Pearce, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Harper, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1024 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1025: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to limit the annual increase in property values (for property tax purposes) to 2%.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Sen. Harper

SCR1025 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1029: CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the
state Constitution to repeal statutes relating to the corporate income tax. Legislative Council is directed to prepare conforming legislation for consideration next year.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

SCR1029 Daily History Date Action
CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/12 referred to Senate fin.

Letter from David Snyder - County Tax Initiative

2008-02-22T06:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends of Arizona's Libraries,
I don't believe we've met before, but in my "former life" I served as the Casa Grande City Librarian for 26 years before retiring in 2003 (in order to run for Pinal County Supervisor). During my tenure with the Library, I also had the pleasure and honor of serving as AzLA President and PLD President (as well as other assignments).
As part of my current responsibilities as County Supervisor, I regularly follow and advocate on legislative proposals of interest to Pinal County. When the legislature attempted to cap the revenues of secondary taxing districts (i.e. library districts) last year, I worked with the County Supervisors Association and others to defeat the measure. Although we were successful -- in concert with AzLA, I might add -- then, there are two measures running concurrently in both chambers today that once again threaten the support counties can give their public libraries via county library districts. HB 2586 & SB 1256 both promise to remove local authority from the library & information funding equation and will further exacerbate the funding challenges our public libraries face.
I have attached some talking points about these two bills which are, in my opinion, really bad public policy. I hope you will be able to use them in your efforts this session. I am preparing to send a similar email to those Friends of the Library organizations I can identify and/or to public libraries urging them to pass this information on to their Friends groups.
NEWS FLASH: We are hoping that you can send another action alert to your library members on Rep. Yarbrough’s HB 2586, the special district levy cap proposal. When the bill is heard in COW, Rep. Konopnicki plans to offer a floor amendment that removes library districts, as well as other county-controlled districts, from the legislation. He is supported by several rural legislators who understand the problematic impacts of the bill, but communication from your members is needed to shore up support for his efforts. We received some signals that Rep. Konopnicki is receiving pressure to remove all county-controlled districts except libraries, so libraries must signal their opposition to the proposal in order to be protected. In particular, we are hoping to get our message in to Reps. Tobin, Mason, Burns, and McClure.
Thank you for all that you do, and for being a part of the fight to keep Arizona's libraries funded and open to the public.
Sincerely,
David Snider
David Snider, Supervisor
Pinal County District 3

Talking Points about Tax Initiatives/County Library Districts

2008-02-21T13:06:00.000-08:00

The Arizona legislature is trying to remove local flexibility of library districts in rural Arizona.

Currently, library districts work with regional libraries to determine what resources are needed, then levies a property tax in order to meet those needs.

House Bill 2586 and Senate Bill 1256 would remove that process and force rural Arizona to conform to the limited funding method adopted by the Maricopa County library district, who has significantly more resources than rural area libraries.

Please contact your legislators now to communicate the importance of a library district in your region, and ask them to vote NO on HB 2586 and SB 1256.

Visit www.votesmart.org to find contact information for your legislators.

Many rural libraries would be impacted by HB 2586 and SB 1256.
HB 2586 and SB 1256 treat libraries in rural areas as if they have the same resources of libraries in Maricopa County. Because of its highly-developed library infrastructure, Maricopa County Library District has already limited its growth; these proposals would force the following rural library districts to do the same:

Apache County Cochise County Coconino County
Gila County Mohave County Navajo County
Pima County Pinal County Yavapai County
Yuma County

This would significantly limit library resources across the state.
HB 1256 and SB 1256 would limit library district property taxes to an annual increase of 2% plus taxes on new construction in the district. If this limitation had been in place last year, library district revenues would have been cut by anywhere between 6% and 41%.

Libraries should not be arbitrarily limited by the state; resource levels should be locally-determined.
Libraries serve local needs, and should be controlled at the local level. They provide vital services to the citizens of rural areas, where growing populations create the need for additional library resources.

These proposals would dramatically increase pressure on Friends of the Library and other fund-raising groups.
If library district resources are cut, either the funding must be subsidized by other sources or services must be cut. Currently, library districts provide the following resources to help regional libraries:
Augment library materials budgets, allowing rural libraries to purchase books, newspapers and database resources.
Provide technical expertise, such as highly-educated librarians and library knowledge, to rural libraries.
Provide circulation and catalog systems to rural libraries, which allows libraries to organize their resources and share the resources of other libraries.

Every citizen of Arizona benefits from the services offered by libraries.
Libraries provide services that are valuable to every group and individual of rural Arizona, including:

Research: The research tools offered by libraries provide resources to teachers, students of every age, scholars, and anyone wanting to learn new skills, job training or information.

News and Information: Libraries subscribe to worldwide newspapers and periodicals that provide extensive knowledge which would otherwise not be available to Arizona’s residents.

Genealogy: While many online genealogy tools are far too costly for individuals to access on their own, libraries are able to provide the unique resource to the public.

Technology: Much of rural Arizona still has limited Internet and telecommunications resources. Libraries provide Internet access, fax machines and other valuable tools to residents.

Meeting Space: Libraries provide room for meetings and gatherings, which is a valuable resource particularly in rural Arizona. Girl and Boy Scout troops, 4-H groups, and senior citizen programs regularly take advantage of this public service.

Update on Archives Building Funding & ASLAPR Budget

2008-02-21T13:03:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends -
There is some bad news and some not so bad news about the archives.
The bad news is that the budget bills going forward to the Governor
(SB1300 and HB 2857) will cut $3.5 million from the new State Archives
building, now under construction.
The not so bad news is that these bills will only cut $270,000 from
the Library & Archives agency budget (instead of the $780,000 first
recommended).
While the building can be completed in spite of the cut, it will
mean: only 1/2 of the storage space will have shelves, there will
be no furniture, no money for security cameras, no money to move
the documents to the new building (there is a possibility that
convict labor could be used for the move), and that
computer wiring and cables will not be pulled thru the building.
The contractor and project manager have been working very hard to
limit the loss and cut costs since it was anticipated there would
be a reduction in funds.
What is critical is that there be no further reduction past the
$3.5 million in the budget bills.
Stay tuned for additional details.

Request to Voice Support of RIF

2008-02-20T06:19:00.000-08:00

URGENT MESSAGE: THE NEXT STEP
FROM CAROL H. RASCO, President and CEO of Reading Is Fundamental

Please ACT NOW and help RIF build support for our funding by sending an e-mail to your members of Congress asking them to sign the RIF Dear Colleague letter.
Since we first shared the disappointing news of President Bush’s proposed elimination of funding for RIF in his fiscal year 2009 budget less than two weeks ago, more than 30,000 messages have been sent to Congress urging legislators to reinstate RIF’s funding.
This initial outpouring of support has prompted RIF’s congressional champions to capitalize on the momentum by circulating in Congress a Dear Colleague letter on behalf of RIF. The Dear Colleague letter asks members of Congress to sign-on in support of RIF’s funding. This is an important next step in the campaign to protect RIF’s FY09 funding.
We are asking Congress to appropriate $26 million to fund RIF’s book distribution program for some 4.6 million underserved children and families in fiscal year 2009. The funding is critical to support our reading motivational programs at nearly 20,000 locations nationwide.We hope you will share this message with six or more friends who will also contact their members of Congress. Thank you in advance for your support!

Virtual Library Legislative Day!

2008-02-19T13:31:00.000-08:00

Organize a Virtual Library Legislative Day!
On May 14, 2008, hundreds of library supporters from across the country will be visiting their Members of Congress during National Library Legislative Day, sharing stories about libraries in their communities and and telling Congressmen and women about the needs and accomplishments of those libraries… and you can help!
Post this flier and recruit everyone you know to take part in a VIRTUAL LIBRARY LEGISLATIVE DAY!
Through Virtual Library Legislative Day, thousands of people all across the country will call, fax and email their Members of Congress to tell them about the importance of libraries in this country.
Get as many library advocates as you can to participate in this incredible event with the Virtual Library Legislative Day flier!
For more information, please visit www.ala.org/nlld.

AzLA Bill Summaries February 15

2008-02-19T08:14:00.000-08:00

Arizona Library Association
48th Legislature - 2nd Regular Session, 2008 Friday, February 15, 2008

AzLA: Bill Summaries

H2098: CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS
Makes permanent the tax credit available for voluntary cash contribution to a school tuition organization. Otherwise scheduled to repeal on June 30, 2011.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep.McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2098 Daily History Date Action
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/17 from House ways-means do pass.
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/14 referred to House ways means.

H2099: PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION
Allows insurance companies to contribute to school tuition organizations and receive a tax credit against their premium tax liability.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2099 Daily History Date Action
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/7 House COW approved with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/5 from House rules okay.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/29 from House ways-means with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/28 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/17 House ways-means held.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2100: TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION
An employee may request that his/her employer reduce the amount of the employee's withholding tax by the amount of credit the employee will qualify for for contributions to a qualified school tuition organization or public school. Expands the list of confidential taxpayer information to include information supplied by an employee to an employer regarding the employee's election to have his/her withholding tax reduced for the purposes of contributions to qualified school tuition organizations or public schools. Effective January 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy

H2100 Daily History Date Action
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/5 from House ways-means with amend #4042.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/4 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2162: TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES
Minor change in statutes dealing with the Department of Library, Archives and Public Records.
Apparent striker bus.

First sponsor: Rep. Adams

H2162 Daily History Date Action
TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES 1/15 referred to House rules only.

H2779: HIGHER EDUCATION; INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS; ACCESSIBILITY
Publishers of textbooks and other educational materials in use in the state must, on request, provide versions in accessible formats. Refusal by a publisher may result in student pursuing a private right of action.

First sponsor: Rep. Ableser
Others: Rep. Alvarez, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Chabin, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Garcia, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. McGuire, Rep. Meza, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Pancrazi, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Thrasher, Rep. Young Wright

H2779 Daily History Date Action
HIGHER EDUCATION; INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS; ACCESSIBILITY 2/11 referred to House higher ed, com, gov.

HCR2003: PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the constitution to limit the annual increase in real property values for tax purposes to 3%.

First sponsor: Rep. McClure

HCR2003 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

HCR2038: STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to reduce the total amount of state appropriations to 6.4% of the state's total personal income. Previously, the appropriation limit was 7%. No adjustment shall be made to the appropriations limit in order to account for a transfer of government functions. Effective for fiscal years beginning on and after July 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2038 Daily History Date Action
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/13 from House appro do pass.
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/6 referred to House appro.

HCR2040: SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to require the state's annual budget to be balanced, that annual expenditures not exceed annual revenues, that there must a year-end cash balance of at least 1% of the general fund balance, and that state obligations do not exceed ongoing or permanent state revenue.
Beginning on January 1, 2010, the state treasurer and each county treasurer must establish a website containing a searchable database of revenues and expenditures.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McComish, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Robson, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2040 Daily History Date Action
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/13 House appro held.
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/6 referred to House appro.

S1002: PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL
Makes permanent the 3 year suspension of the state equalization property tax. [Capitol Reports note: the suspension is due to expire in 2009. This tax is also called the county equalization assistance for education property tax].

First sponsor: Sen. Waring
Others: Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. McComish, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Robson, Rep. Jerry Weiers, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burns, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Harper

S1002 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/31 Senate COW approved with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/29 from Senate rules okay.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/17 from Senate fin with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/16 Senate fin amended; report awaited.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/14 referred to Senate fin.

S1256: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Limits the annual increase in the maximum secondary tax levy permissible to certain special districts (including, fire district, county TV district, flood control district, jail district, etc). The list of duties of the Property Tax Oversight Commission is expanded to include reviewing the secondary property tax levies of these special districts to ensure compliance.

First sponsor: Sen. Burns
Others: Sen. Gorman, Sen. Harper

S1256 Daily History Date Action
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/12 from Senate rules okay.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/7 from Senate fin with amend #4072.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

S1337: CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION
Reallocates the $2.5 million appropriated in fiscal 2006-2007 to legislative council as follows: 1) $2,050,000 to the Historical Advisory Commission; and 2) $450,000 to legislative council. Emergency clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Flake Others: Rep. Ableser, Rep. Adams, Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Bradley, Rep. Brown, Rep. Burns, Rep. Cajero Bedford, Rep. Chad Campbell, Rep. Cloves Campbell Jr., Rep. Clark, Rep. Crandall, Rep. Crump, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farley, Rep. Gallardo, Rep. Hershberger, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Konopnicki, Rep. Lopes, Rep. Lopez, Rep. Lujan, Rep. Mason, Rep. McClure, Rep. McComish, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Prezelski, Rep. Rios, Rep. Robson, Rep. Schapira, Rep. Sinema, Rep. Stump, Rep. Tobin, Rep. Tom, Rep. Jim Weiers, Sen. Aboud, Sen. Aguirre, Sen. Allen, Sen. Arzberger, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burton Cahill, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Hale, Sen. Harper, Sen. Huppenthal, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Landrum Taylor, Sen. Leff, Sen. McCune Davis, Sen. Miranda, Sen. Pesquiera, Sen. Rios, Sen. Soltero, Sen. Verschoor

S1337 Daily History Date Action
CENTENNIAL FUNDING; CAPITOL RENOVATION 2/4 referred to Senate appro.

S1398: PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS
Establishes regulations for partnerships between any state department or agency or any political subdivision of this state and a private entity.

First sponsor: Sen. Johnson
Others: Sen. Aboud, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Gould, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Verschoor

S1398 Daily History Date Action
PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS 2/6 referred to Senate gov.

S1409: INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL
Beginning tax year 2009, the Arizona individual income tax is repealed. Session law directs Legislative Council to prepare conforming legislation.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

S1409 Daily History Date Action
INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/6 referred to Senate fin.

S1475: PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION
Various changes in statutes pertaining to property taxation, including elimination of all statutory references to the transportation revenue control limit, restricting the expenses that a district may claim as desegregation costs, no district may claim deseg expenses greater than the amount claimed in fiscal 07-08, taxes levied for budget overrides in any year may not exceed the levy in the first year of the override without securing voter approval; elimination of the county equalization assistance for education tax, the secondary tax levy of selected special districts may not increase more than 2% and the Property Tax Oversight Commission must review the levies to insure compliance.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor
Others: Rep. Pearce, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Huppenthal
S
1475 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION 2/11 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1018: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require that the annual change in property values for property tax purposes be equal to the change in the GDP price deflator from the previous year.

First sponsor: Sen. Huppenthal

SCR1018 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1022: INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to phase out the state income tax (both individual and corporate) so that by Jan 1,
2013, no governmental entity shall assess or collect a tax based on income. The Legislature is authorized to increase sales and use taxes to compensate for the loss in revenue and such measures are exempt from Prop 108 that would otherwise require a 2/3 majority in each house for passage.

First sponsor: Sen. Chuck Gray
Others: Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1022 Daily History Date Action
INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1024: PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require all taxing jurisdictions to set their 2009 levy no higher than the actual levy in 2005 and that beginning in 2010, they must limit the annual increase in tax levies to 2% plus the value of new construction. Levies exceeding the 2% limit may be enacted only by a 2/3 vote of the qualified electors. A petition to reduce a jurisdiction's levy limit by up to 20% that is signed by 10% of the electors in the district will require an election to be held at the next general election. Severability clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Rep. Pearce, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Harper, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1024 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1025: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to limit the annual increase in property values (for property tax purposes) to 2%.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Sen. Harper

SCR1025 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1029: CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to repeal statutes relating to the corporate income tax. Legislative Council is directed to prepare conforming legislation for consideration next year.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

SCR1029 Daily History Date Action
CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/12 referred to Senate fin.

(Bill summaries and histories copyright ©2007 Arizona Capitol Reports, L.L.C.)

Tucson Unified School District Board Cuts Teacher-Librarians

2008-02-14T10:18:00.000-08:00

In a 3-2 vote last night, the Tucson Unified School District Board voted to force elementary schools with fewer than 350 students to choose between a half-time teacher-librarian or a half-time counselor.

See http://www.azstarnet.com/metro/225023 for details.

Feb 4 JLBC Presentation to Senate Finance and House Ways & Means

2008-02-11T07:19:00.000-08:00

TAX REVOLT CONSEQUENCES

Senator Gould has introduced his own versions of the tax limiting measure: SCR1024; property tax levy rollback and SCR 1026; property tax valuation rollback. On Monday, JLBC gave a presentation summarizing the provisions and consequences of the measure to a joint meeting of Senate Finance and House Ways & Means. JLBC determined the following possible impact:
Disconnects a property’s market value from its taxable value
The tax base (as measured by the full cash value) will be reduced by several hundred billion dollars
If the 2% levy limit is not altered, there will likely be a sharp increase in tax rates
Higher tax rates will increase the state cost for the Homeowner’s Rebate and the 1% cap
There will be a tax burden shift to business personal property and centrally valued property
Shrinkage of tax base may increase state share of school funding under formulas
The impact on the state general fund may be in the hundreds of millions.
Concerning the levy rollback, JLBC concluded:
Local tax will decline but unevenly across taxing districts
Levy rollback for K-12 will likely result in significant higher basic state aid for schools
JLBC also prepared an analysis of what a Prop 13-like constitutional amendment would do:
Disconnects a property’s market value from its taxable value
Disparity in values within neighborhoods based on when properties were last sold
Local tax revenues would be significantly reduced
If state is required to backfill when a property’s taxes exceeds the 1% cap, the cost to the state may be in the hundreds of millions
If the state is not required to backfill, the losers will be local taxing districts who stand to lose in the hundreds of millions
The reduction in property values is likely to significantly increase basic state aid to schools.

AzLA Bill Summaries - February

2008-02-11T07:18:00.000-08:00

AzLA
48th Legislature - 2nd Regular Session, 2008 Friday, Feb 8 2008

Bill summaries and histories copyright ©2007 Arizona Capitol Reports, L.L.C.

AzLA: Bill Summaries

H2098: CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS
Makes permanent the tax credit available for voluntary cash contribution to a school tuition organization. Otherwise scheduled to repeal on June 30, 2011.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep.McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2098 Daily History Date Action
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/17 from House ways-means do pass.
CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2099: PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION
Allows insurance companies to contribute to school tuition organizations and receive a tax credit against their premium tax liability.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2099 Daily History Date Action
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/7 House COW approved with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 2/5 from House rules okay. PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/29 from House ways-means with amend #4018.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/28 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/17 House ways-means held.
PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2100: TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION
An employee may request that his/her employer reduce the amount of the employee's withholding
tax by the amount of credit the employee will qualify for for contributions to a qualified school tuition organization or public school. Expands the list of confidential taxpayer information to include information supplied by an employee to an employer regarding the employee's election to have his/her withholding tax reduced for the purposes of contributions to qualified school tuition organizations or public schools. Effective January 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Yarbrough
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy

H2100 Daily History Date Action
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/5 from House ways-means with amend #4042.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 2/4 House ways-means amended; report awaited.
TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2162: TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES
Minor change in statutes dealing with the Department of Library, Archives and Public Records. Apparent striker bus.

First sponsor: Rep. Adams

H2162 Daily History Date Action
TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES 1/15 referred to House rules only.

H2745: EMPLOYER SANCTIONS AMENDMENTS
The definition of the crimes of taking or trafficking in the identity of another person is expanded to include instances when the taking or trafficking is used with the intent to obtain or continue employment. Clarifies that when an employer hires an independent contractor, it is the contractor that is liable under the employer sanctions law and not the person or entity that hires the contractor. Criteria are prescribed to determine independent contractor status. However, an employer violates the law if the employer hires a contractor or subcontractor who is an alien and whom the employer knows to be an illegal alien. A complaint alleging violation of the law does not need to carry the complainant's social security number or be notarized. Complaints submitted on a prescribed form must be investigated. Complaints not submitted on the prescribed form may be investigated. Complaints must be submitted in the county in which the alleged violation occurred. If an investigation results in a suspension of business licenses, only the licenses specific to the business location where the violation occurred are suspended (language requiring suspension of all licenses necessary to carry on business at that location is deleted). Adds provision that employers are considered to have complied with requirements of the law if there is "good faith" attempts to comply, despite "isolated, sporadic or accidental technical or procedural
con-compliance." Adds requirements that employers must comply with all laws regarding income tax withholding, payment of unemployment insurance and workers' comp premiums. Adds prohibition against any state agency from granting la license to a person who is not legally present in this county. Severability clause.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crandall, Rep. Crump, Rep. Desimone, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Nichols, Rep. Robson, Rep. Stump, Rep. Tobin, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Jerry Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burns, Sen. Flake, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

H2745 Daily History Date Action
No actions posted for this bill within the requested time frame.

HCR2003: PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the constitution to limit the annual increase in real property values for tax purposes to 3%.

First sponsor: Rep. McClure

HCR2003 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES 1/14 referred to House ways means.

HCR2038: STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to reduce the total amount of state appropriations to 6.4% of the state's total personal income. Previously, the appropriation limit was 7%. No adjustment shall be made to the appropriations limit in order to account for a transfer of government functions. Effective for fiscal years beginning on and after July 1, 2009.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2038 Daily History Date Action
STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTION 2/6 referred to House appro.

HCR2040: SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require the state's annual budget to be balanced, that annual expenditures not exceed annual revenues, that there must a year-end cash balance of at least 1% of the general fund balance, and that state obligations do not exceed ongoing or permanent state revenue. Beginning on January 1, 2010, the state treasurer and each county treasurer must establish a website containing a searchable database of revenues and expenditures.

First sponsor: Rep. Pearce
Others: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McComish, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Robson, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep.
Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2040 Daily History Date Action
SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACT 2/6 referred to House appro.

S1002: PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL
Makes permanent the 3 year suspension of the state equalization property tax. [Capitol Reports note: the suspension is due to expire in 2009. This tax is also called the county
equalization assistance for education property tax].

First sponsor: Sen. Waring
Others: Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. McComish, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Robson, Rep. Jerry Weiers, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burns, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Harper

S1002 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/31 Senate COW approved with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/29 from Senate rules okay.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/17 from Senate fin with amend #4005.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/16 Senate fin amended; report awaited.
PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/14 referred to Senate fin.

S1256: SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS
Limits the annual increase in the maximum secondary tax levy permissible to certain special districts (including, fire district, county TV district, flood control district, jail district, etc). The list of duties of the Property Tax Oversight Commission is expanded to include reviewing the secondary property tax levies of these special districts to ensure compliance.

First sponsor: Sen. Burns
Others: Sen. Gorman, Sen. Harper

S1256 Daily History Date Action
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 2/7 from Senate fin with amend #4072.
SPECIAL DISTRICTS; SECONDARY LEVY LIMITS 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

S1409: INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL
Beginning tax year 2009, the Arizona individual income tax is repealed. Session law directs Legislative Council to prepare conforming legislation.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

S1409 Daily History Date Action
INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX; REPEAL 2/6 referred to Senate fin.

S1475: PROPERTY TAX RELIEF & PROTECTION
Various changes in statutes pertaining to property taxation, including elimination of all statutory references to the transportation revenue control limit, restricting the expenses that a district may claim as desegregation costs, no district may claim deseg expenses greater than the amount claimed in fiscal 07-08, taxes levied for budget overrides in any year may not exceed the levy in the first year of the override without securing voter approval; elimination of the county equalization assistance for education tax, the secondary tax levy of selected special districts may not increase more than 2% and the Property Tax Oversight Commission must review the levies to insure compliance. More.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor
Others: Rep. Pearce, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Huppenthal

S1475 Daily History Date Action
No actions posted for this bill within the requested time frame.

SCR1018: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require that the annual change in property values for property tax purposes be equal to the change in the GDP price deflator from the previous year.

First sponsor: Sen. Huppenthal

SCR1018 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION; INFLATION LIMITATION 1/31 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1022: INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to phase out the state income tax (both individual and corporate) so that by Jan 1, 2013, no governmental entity shall assess or collect a tax based on income. The Legislature is authorized to increase sales and use taxes to compensate for the loss in revenue and such measures are exempt from Prop 108 that would otherwise require a 2/3 majority in each house for passage.

First sponsor: Sen. Chuck Gray
Others: Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1022 Daily History Date Action
INCOME TAX PHASE-OUT; FAIR TAX 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1024: PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to require all taxing jurisdictions to set their 2009 levy no higher than the actual levy in 2005 and that beginning in 2010, they must limit the annual increase in tax levies to 2% plus the value of new construction. Levies exceeding the 2% limit may be enacted only by a 2/3 vote of the qualified electors. A petition to reduce a jurisdiction's levy limit by up to 20% that is signed by 10% of the electors in the district will require an election to be held at the next general election. Severability clause.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Rep. Pearce, Sen. Chuck Gray, Sen. Harper, Sen. Verschoor

SCR1024 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX LEVY ROLLBACK 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1025: PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state
Constitution to limit the annual increase in property values (for property tax purposes) to 2%.

First sponsor: Sen. Gould
Others: Rep. Groe, Sen. Harper

SCR1025 Daily History Date Action
PROPERTY TAX; VALUATION INCREASE LIMIT 2/4 referred to Senate fin.

SCR1029: CORPORATE INCOME TAX; REPEAL
The 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the state Constitution to repeal statutes relating to the corporate income tax. Legislative Council is directed to prepare conforming legislation for consideration next year.

First sponsor: Sen. Verschoor

SCR1029 Daily History Date Action
No actions posted for this bill within the requested time frame.

Appropriations Committee contacts

2008-02-07T11:43:00.000-08:00

You can contact the House and Senate on one toll free number 800-352-8404. You’ll be prompted to enter the first few letters of the person’s last name. Even though you may not live in the committee members’ district, you should still call. Officials not on the committee will not participate tomorrow in this process. Thanks. David

Appropriations

House of Representatives Standing Committee

Members
Position
Staff
Kirk Adams
Member
Republican Analyst

Andy Biggs
Member
Democratic Analyst

Judy M. Burges
Member
Republican Intern

Olivia Cajero Bedford
Member
Democratic Intern

Cloves C. Campbell, Jr.
Member

Doug Clark
Member

Trish Groe
Vice-Chairman

John Kavanagh
Member

Phil Lopes
Member

Linda Lopez
Member

David Lujan
Member

Nancy McLain
Member

Rick Murphy
Member

Russell K. Pearce
Chairman

Pete Rios
Member

David Schapira
Member

Jerry Weiers
Member

Appropriations

Senate Standing Committee

Members
Position
Staff
Paula Aboud
Member
Republican Analyst

Amanda Aguirre
Member
Democratic Analyst

Carolyn S. Allen
Vice-Chairman
Republican Intern

Robert "Bob" Burns
Chairman
Democratic Intern

Jake Flake
Member

Jorge Luis Garcia
Member

Albert Hale
Member

Jack W. Harper
Member

John Huppenthal
Member

Karen Johnson
Member

Jim Waring
Member

Email from AzLA President about the State Budget

2008-02-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Dear AzLA Members,

I recently contacted you urging you to take immediate action and to voice your concern for the unfavorable legislative budget cuts being proposed at the state level.
I have more information to share with you regarding a second budget crisis and the situation at hand.
In addition to the proposed 10% budget decrease facing the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records (approximately $800,000) there is a another threat as well.
In addition, Governor Napolitano has recommended that $3.5 million be cut from the budget of the State Archives building, currently under construction on the west side of 19th Avenue near the capitol. This will have a negative impact on the new building. You can find the Governor’s recommendation: http://www.azgovernor.gov/documents/NR_010308_Flipbook_%20FY08.pdf
Again, here's how you can help:
1. Find out who your Senator and Representative are:
If you don't know, click here and enter your address to find out which district you are in:
http://www.azleg.gov/alisStaticPages/HowToContactMember.asp
If you know, click here and look for your Legislators:
http://www.azleg.gov/MemberRoster.asp?Body=S (Senators)
http://www.azleg.gov/memberRoster.asp?Body=H (Representatives)
2. Contact them:
Voice your sympathy for the severity of the situation. Tell them you appreciate the tough decisions they face.
Voice your concern regarding the budgetary cuts for ASLAPR
Urge them to contact the Director of the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records, GladysAnn Wells to discuss how this budget cut will effect ASLAPR.
Again, thank you for your help in this urgent matter.
In addition, AzLA supports two annual legislative days. A tentative date has been set for the Arizona Library Legislative Day of Thursday, April 17. We understand there are conflicts for some members, however it is difficult to find a date that works for everyone. This year we will again invite legislators to join AzLA members for lunch on the lawn, which provides opportunities for us to invite our senators and representatives to visit our community, school and university libraries. These visits are important to cultivate legislative champions and expand grass root efforts in affecting public policy on our issues. Please mark your calendar and plan to join us on April 17!
Angie Creel-Erb
Arizona Library Association President
Director of Library Services
Arizona Western College
PO Box 929
Yuma, AZ 85365
928-344-7776
angie.creel-erb@azwestern.edu

AzLA Bill Summaries - January

2008-02-07T09:50:00.000-08:00

Arizona Library Association
48th Legislature - 2nd Regular Session, 2008
Wednesday, Jan 23 2008 12:04 PM

Bill summaries and histories copyright ©2007 Arizona Capitol Reports, L.L.C.

AzLA: Bill Summaries

H2098: CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONSMakes permanent the tax credit available for voluntary cash contribution to a school tuitionorganization. Otherwise scheduled to repeal on June 30, 2011.
First sponsor: Rep. YarbroughOthers: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2098 Daily History Date ActionCORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/17 from House ways-means do pass.CORPORATE TAX CREDIT; TUITION ORGANIZATIONS 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2099: PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTIONAllows insurance companies to contribute to school tuition organizations and receive a tax creditagainst their premium tax liability.
First sponsor: Rep. YarbroughOthers: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McLain, Rep. Murphy, Sen. Gorman

H2099 Daily History Date ActionPREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/17 House ways-means held.PREMIUM TAX CREDIT; STO CONTRIBUTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

H2100: TAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTIONAn employee may request that his/her employer reduce the amount of theemployee's withholding tax by the amount of credit the employee will qualify for for contributionsto a qualified school tuition organization or public school. Expands the list of confidentialtaxpayer information to include information supplied by an employee to an employer regardingthe employee's election to have his/her withholding tax reduced for the purposes of contributionsto qualified school tuition organizations or public schools. Effective January 1, 2009.
First sponsor: Rep. YarbroughOthers: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Clark, Rep. Crump, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep.Murphy

H2100 Daily History Date ActionTAX CREDITS; WITHHOLDING TAX REDUCTION 1/14 referred to House ways-means.H2162: TECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVESMinor change in statutes dealing with the Department of Library, Archives and Public Records.Apparent striker bus.
First sponsor: Rep. Adams

H2162 Daily History Date ActionTECH CORRECTION; LIBRARY; ARCHIVES 1/15 referred to House rules only.

HCR2003: PROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASESThe 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the constitution tolimit the annual increase in real property values for tax purposes to 3%.
First sponsor: Rep. McClure

HCR2003 Daily History Date ActionPROPERTY TAX; LIMIT VALUATION INCREASES 1/14 referred to House ways-means.

HCR2038: STATE APPROPRIATION LIMIT; REDUCTIONThe 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the stateConstitution to reduce the total amount of state appropriations to 6.4% of the state'stotal personal income. Previously, the appropriation limit was 7%. No adjustment shall be madeto the appropriations limit in order to account for a transfer of government functions. Effective forfiscal years beginning on and after July 1, 2009.
First sponsor: Rep. PearceOthers: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep.Kavanagh, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Gould, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2038 Daily History Date ActionNo actions posted for this bill within the requested time frame.

HCR2040: SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY ACTThe 2008 general election ballot is to carry the question of whether to amend the stateConstitution to require the state's annual budget to be balanced, that annual expenditures notexceed annual revenues, that there must a year-end cash balance of at least 1% of the generalfund balance, and that state obligations do not exceed ongoing or permanent state revenue.Beginning on January 1, 2010, the state treasurer and each county treasurer must establish awebsite containing a searchable database of revenues and expenditures.
First sponsor: Rep. PearceOthers: Rep. Anderson, Rep. Barnes, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. Crump, Rep. Driggs, Rep. Farnsworth, Rep. Groe, Rep. Kavanagh, Rep. McComish, Rep. Miranda, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Robson, Rep. Stump, Rep. Jim Weiers, Rep. Yarbrough, Sen. Burns, Sen. Harper, Sen. Johnson, Sen. Verschoor

HCR2040 Daily History Date ActionNo actions posted for this bill within the requested time frame.

S1002: PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEALMakes permanent the 3 year suspension of the state equalization property tax.[note: the suspension is due to expire in 2009. This tax is also called the county equalization assistance for education property tax].
First sponsor: Sen. WaringOthers: Rep. Barnes, Rep. Barto, Rep. Biggs, Rep. Boone, Rep. Burges, Rep. McComish, Rep. Murphy, Rep. Nelson, Rep. Pearce, Rep. Robson, Rep. Jerry Weiers, Sen. Bee, Sen. Blendu, Sen. Burns, Sen. Linda Gray, Sen. Harper

S1002 Daily History Date ActionPROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/17 from Senate fin with amend #4005.PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/16 Senate fin amended; report awaited.PROPERTY TAX; EQUALIZATION TAX REPEAL 1/14 referred to Senate fin.

Template of Letter to Senator/Representative about Budget

2008-02-07T09:47:00.000-08:00

Dear Senator or Representative Name Here,

I am writing to express my concern over the impending budget crisis for our state. I understand that the situation is severe, and I appreciate your efforts to balance competing interests. I know there are tough decisions that must be made. However, I am very concerned regarding the budgetary cuts for the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records. They are facing a 10% cut, which would result in significant layoffs and potential liability involving repayment of grant and federal funds. It puts our State Grants in Aid funding in grave peril. For our libraries in Pinal County, State Grants in Aid helps keep our volunteer libraries open and operating. Without it many would have difficulty paying utility costs, which could mean closing their doors. In addition to the proposed budget decrease, Governor Napolitano has recommended that $3.5 million be cut from the budget of the State Archives building, currently under construction on the west side of 19th Avenue near the capitol. This will have a negative impact on the new building. I understand the gravity of the budget shortfall, but cutting the State Library at 10% will mean that they are unable to meet Federal maintenance of effort requirements.

Please consider contacting the Director of the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records, GladysAnn Wells to discuss how this budget cut will affect them.

Thank you for your help in this urgent matter.

Sincerely,
Your Name, Your Title
Library Name
Address
Address
Telephone Number

2008-02-07T09:39:00.000-08:00

LEGISLATIVE REPORT JANUARY 2008
Attached find a Legislative Issue Update and Bill Summaries from AzLA Lobbyist Kristen Boilini. Included in the summary are bills of interest to our diverse membership. H2098 and H2099 support the continuing of school tax credits and H2100 provides for a reduction in withholding by employers of employees who qualify for the credit. H2162 provides for a minor change in the State Library statue. HCR2003 has been a concern to many AzLA members, especially County Librarians and requires our attention. If passed, HCR2003 would put to ballot whether or not to limit the annual increase in property taxes to 3%. HCR2038 is a ballot issue regarding whether to reduce the total amount of state appropriations from 7% to 6.4% of the states income. HCR2040 would place on the ballot the question of whether to require a state balanced budget. S1002 makes permanent the 3-year suspension of the equalization property tax. Please review the summary to determine potential impacts for your library and communicate with your representatives and senators. Kristen will continue to monitor these bills on our behalf.

The intense budget crisis in the legislature has brought forth two very serious problems for the state library. The state library faces a 10% budget decrease for this year and next. This will dramatically alter the way the agency does business. It puts State Grants in Aid funding in grave peril. Attached is a letter written to President Bee and Speaker Weiers by State Library Director GladysAnn Wells outlining reductions that the agency is able to absorb during Fiscal Years ‘08 and ’09 and charts outlining the impact that a 10% cut will have in Fiscal Year ’08.AzLA members need to contact their representatives and senators (via phone or email) and share their support for the State Library. Tell your elected officials that it is important to protect the federal funds (which require a state match) and state grants in aid. Share that as constituents, you need the funds and services the State Library provides. Please contact your legislators and voice your concern regarding the budgetary cuts for ASLAPR, letting them know about the good work your library does with its State Grants in Aid funds. In addition, Governor Napolitano has recommended that $3.5 million be cut from the budget of the State Archives building, currently under construction on the west side of 19th Avenue near the capitol. This will have a negative impact on the new building. You can find the Governor’s recommendation: http://www.azgovernor.gov/documents/NR_010308_Flipbook_%20FY08.pdf

AzLA supports two annual legislative days. A tentative date has been set for the Arizona Library Legislative Day of Thursday, April 17. We understand there are conflicts for some members, however it is difficult to find a date that works for everyone. This year we will again invite legislators to join AzLA members for lunch on the lawn, which provides opportunities for us to invite our senators and representatives to visit our community, school and university libraries. These visits are important to cultivate legislative champions and expand grass root efforts in affecting public policy on our issues. Please mark your calendar and plan to join us on April 17!This year plans are being made for AzLA President, Angela Creel-Erb, President-Elect, Denise Keller, Legislative Chair, Brenda Brown and State Librarian, GladysAnn Wells to attend the American Library Association’s National Library Legislative Day activities May 13 & 14. Appointments will be scheduled in advance with all Arizona Senators and Congressmen. Last year we met with two Senate and four Congressional staff members and four of our eight Congressmen (Harry Mitchell, Raul Grijalva, Ed Pastor and Trent Franks). All AzLA members and advocates are encouraged to join us in Washington. Contact me for more information (brenda.brown@chandleraz.gov, 480-782-2817).

Please continue to funnel concerns about legislative issues to us. We track and support a number of concerns. We still hope that eventually, in a better budget climate we might be able to impact incremental increases of State Grants in Aid funding. We continue to express the need for qualified librarians in every school and the measures to limit secondary property taxes.

Attachments:AzLA Bill SummariesLetter from State Librarian to Senate President and House SpeakerASLAPR Appropriations Options FY08

Welcome to AzLA's new Legislative Blog!

2008-02-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the AzLA Legislative Network. The purpose of this blog is to serve as a clearinghouse for important issues related to all kinds of libraries in the state of Arizona. If you know of an issue that may affect a library or library system, please let us know using the comment link or contact the AzLA Legislative Team at admin (AT) azla.org, attention Brenda Brown.