Rep. Griffin Condemns Hobbs’ Budget as a Direct Assault on Water Rights

By Daniel Stefanski |

Arizona lawmakers are expressing strong opposition to Governor Katie Hobbs’ proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. State Representative Gail Griffin, who chairs the House Natural Resources, Energy & Water Committee, criticized the Governor’s plan, stating, “As usual, the Governor talks a big game on water but does little to prioritize the solutions that matter.”

The issue of water management has become increasingly contentious in Arizona, especially amid a divided government. In her State of the State address, Hobbs emphasized the urgency of addressing water security. “We must act now to protect Arizona’s water,” she said, warning that any inadequate legislative response would face her veto. She highlighted her commitment to bipartisan efforts aimed at safeguarding groundwater resources.

The Governor’s budget includes a $3 million proposal for establishing a Colorado River Litigation Fund. This fund aims to bolster the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) in its legal fight to protect the state’s Colorado River entitlements. Additionally, Hobbs has requested funding to hire six new ADWR employees to tackle pressing water policy challenges and nearly $5 million for fish hatchery renovations across Arizona.

In contrast, Griffin argues that the budget neglects pressing housing needs. “It seems the Governor is more interested in building new homes for fish and birds than supporting hard-working Arizonans,” she remarked. She asserted the budget lacks provisions to enhance the housing supply or promote home ownership, critical factors for Arizona residents.

Griffin reaffirmed her party’s commitment to fiscally responsible solutions that prioritize housing and water supply. “Arizona House Republicans will continue to put the interests of Arizona citizens first in our budget negotiations,” she declared.

This sentiment was echoed by Senate leaders from her party. Senate President Warren Petersen criticized the Governor’s decision to halt home construction in burgeoning areas, an action he deemed irresponsible as it exacerbates affordability issues for first-time buyers. Senate President Pro-Tempore T.J. Shope emphasized the importance of infrastructure development, stating, “We must build. Arizona knows how to conserve water.” He urged the Governor to support legislative measures that enable growth while ensuring water sustainability.

As budget discussions progress, the key issues of water management and housing remain at the forefront of Arizona’s political landscape.