Arizona’s ‘DOGE’ Faces Defeat After Bipartisan Backlash

A recent proposal to create a local counterpart to the Department of Government Efficiency in Arizona met significant resistance in the state House on February 26, resulting in its failure due to bipartisan opposition.

HB2031, spearheaded by Republican Representative Alex Kolodin, aimed to dissolve eight state boards and commissions responsible for overseeing various industries. Kolodin cited the Trump administration’s DOGE as a model, advocating for reduced government expenditures.

During a floor discussion on February 25, Kolodin expressed his belief that voters desire a leaner government, saying, “In the 2024 general elections, the voters spoke loudly, and they want to reduce the size of government.”

Opposition to the bill stemmed from concerns that it would eliminate the Barbering and Cosmetology Board and the Commission on the Arts, both essential for ensuring safety and regulatory quality. Efforts by Rep. Selina Bliss, R-Prescott, to amend the bill and preserve these boards were met with resistance from Kolodin, who described the amendment as hostile.

Bliss emphasized the significance of the Barbering and Cosmetology Board, pointing out that it plays a crucial role in the cosmetology industry. Supporters, including Rep. Teresa Martinez, R-Casa Grande, argued that the board’s regulatory function is vital for public safety. “I want them licensed and trained,” she remarked, highlighting the potential health risks if regulations are removed.

Democratic lawmakers, such as Rep. Anna Abeytia, D-Phoenix, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the negative impacts on industry professionals and consumers alike. “This is an extremely harmful bill to people like myself,” Abeytia stated.

Both parties also defended the Commission on the Arts, which Bliss asserted significantly boosts the state’s economy, contributing $14 billion according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Kolodin disagreed, labeling the Arts Commission as “especially pernicious,” alleging misuse of taxpayer funds.

Ultimately, the bill was rejected with a vote of 42-17, with several Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. Kolodin had previously modified the proposal, removing councils like the Citrus Research Council after stakeholder feedback, yet a new board, the Iceberg Lettuce Research Council, was added instead.

The original bill intended to abolish ten boards and commissions, including smaller entities like the Acupuncture Board of Examiners and the Companion Animal Spay and Neuter Committee. A recent review indicated that 16% of the seats on state boards and commissions remain vacant, though only one vacancy was targeted by HB2031. Kolodin holds a strong stance against state agencies, advocating for widespread deregulation.

This isn’t the first instance of proposed deregulation within the cosmetology sector; former Governor Doug Ducey also championed similar efforts. However, those measures faced similar pushback, underscoring ongoing tension between deregulation advocates and regulatory proponents. Other proposals inspired by DOGE are still navigating the Legislature, though none appear as sweeping as Kolodin’s failed attempt.