January 15,2016 | Triadvocates
1. Monday marked the first day of the 52nd Legislature, Second Regular Session. Gov. Doug Ducey kicked off the Session with his 2016 State of the State address, which we recapped in a special edition of The Navigator earlier this week. The governor's top priorities, according to his speech, include tax cuts, education, innovation and criminal justice reform. If you missed it, you can catch his speech here.
2. This afternoon, Gov. Ducey unveiled his proposed FY 2017 Executive Budget. The governor’s $9.5 billion budget proposes $105 million in supplemental funding for FY 2016 and an increase of $284 million in spending for FY 2017—$168 million of which would go to new initiatives. For key highlights, click here.
3. Early this week, State Rep. Victoria Steele – a Democrat representing LD 9, which covers most of Tucson – resigned her legislative seat to focus on her run for Congress. The Pima County Board of Supervisors is responsible for appointing her replacement. Members of the Democratic precinct in Steele’s district are in the process of recommending possible candidates.
4. Clint Hickman was elected 2016 Chairman by his peers on the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors on Jan. 8. Hickman’s West Valley district is primed for economic development and he brings considerable skills as vice president of sales and marketing for Hickman Farms, Arizona’s largest egg producer. To learn more about Chairman Hickman’s work in Maricopa County, click here.
5. Arizona Lottery Director Tony Bouie resigned his post in Gov. Ducey's administration on Wednesday. Bouie's resignation came just days after the Phoenix New Times published an article alleging that he had violated the law by using state vehicles for personal use.
Day of Session: 5
Bills Posted: 658
Bills Passed: 0
Bills Vetoed: 0
Bills Signed: 0