By Staff Reporter |

State Senator Shawnna Bolick is at the forefront of child protection legislation while playing a critical role in maintaining Republican dominance in the Arizona Legislature. Seeking her first full term, Bolick was appointed in July 2023 following the resignation of Steve Kaiser. Previously, she served two terms in the Arizona House of Representatives from 2019 to 2023.

Earlier this year, Bolick introduced SB 1372, a significant measure that prohibits courts from mandating family reunification treatment without the consent of both parents. The bill received strong support, passing the Senate with a 19-9 vote and the House with a 32-27 result, eventually signed into law by Governor Katie Hobbs in April.

In a statement regarding the bill, Bolick recounted troubling stories from families affected by reunification camps, indicating a system rife with exploitation. “Unqualified individuals have profited from the dysfunction inflicted on countless kids,” she said, expressing concern over the negative impacts on children taken from their homes. “Many of these kids are forced into dangerous situations while being disconnected from the parents who genuinely care for their safety.”

She also criticized the nine Senate Democrats and nearly all House Democrats who opposed the bill, asserting their votes reflected a disconnect from the needs of vulnerable children.

Governor Hobbs supported the bill for codifying best practices in handling vulnerable children, emphasizing its importance in preventing harmful situations.

The Arizona National Organization for Women also endorsed the legislation, highlighting its broad support across diverse groups. This endorsement signifies a rare alignment on family reunification issues.

Bolick’s commitment to children’s safety extends back to her previous tenure when she championed HB 2134 to allocate $150,000 for school safety grants. Reflecting on her experience, she emphasized the crucial role technology plays in student safety, linking bullying to serious outcomes highlighted in a 2021 child fatality report.

Her advocacy for school choice gained momentum after her daughter faced bullying in the public school system, prompting discussions about the need for legislative action to protect students. Bolick’s Lifeline for Student Crime Victims Act aims to expand scholarship options for school victims, demonstrating her dedication to addressing these pressing issues.

Challenges remain as Bolick prepares for the upcoming November General Election, competing against Judy Schwiebert, who is unopposed in the Democratic primary. Arizona Legislative District 2’s narrow voting margin of 3.8% makes it a critical battleground, but Republicans have historically fared well in the area.

If re-elected, Bolick aims to explore further initiatives to combat bullying, addressing root causes to prevent children from missing school due to such issues.