Arizona Legislative Update

Arizona's Legislature has started the session with proposals intended to weaken unions by draining dues money. SB 1440 & HB 2322 would allow workers covered under collective bargaining contracts to only pay for the "actual cost of grievance representation." The political work that has traditionally been performed by the union would not be covered.

Link to SB 1440 bill language: Status: dead, not heard in committee

Link to HB 2322 bill language: Status: dead, not heard in committee

Senate OKs School Voucher Program

The Senate has narrowly approved a bill to establish a voucher program to give tuition grants of up to $4,500 for students attending private schools. The Senate's 16-12 vote March 14 sent the bill (HB 1506) to the House, where a House version of the legislation awaits a final vote.

The Legislature is in session 100 days and has until mid-April to wrap-up business, although they frequently extend session.