Gov. Katie Hobbs Bypasses Scottsdale Voters with Controversial Axon Bill Signature

PHOENIX — Governor Katie Hobbs has signed Senate Bill 1543, a pivotal piece of legislation allowing Axon, a technology firm specializing in law enforcement solutions, to bypass a referendum and establish a new headquarters in Scottsdale. This move has sparked a range of reactions among local officials and residents.

The bill permits Axon to override local zoning regulations, enabling the construction of a vast campus that will feature their corporate headquarters, retail options, restaurants, and housing for employees. Following its passage on April 15, the legislation received bipartisan support despite opposition from a group of eight Republicans and four Democrats in the Arizona Senate.

Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky publicly urged Gov. Hobbs to veto the bill, emphasizing her belief that residents deserved a voice in the matter. In a recent statement, she expressed disappointment regarding the decision, reminding constituents that many had called for a referendum to assess local sentiment on the proposed apartments.

In response to the bill’s passage, Axon CEO Rick Smith heralded the signing as a “success story” for the company. He highlighted the significance of the legislation for Arizona’s economy, claiming it would bolster job creation and foster innovation, as well as address the state’s housing supply challenges.

“Today marks a defining moment for Axon, for Scottsdale, and for the state of Arizona,” Smith stated, expressing gratitude to the governor and various stakeholders who supported the measure. With the expansion, Axon anticipates increasing its workforce to over 5,500 high-tech jobs and generating an estimated $38 billion in economic impact over the next ten years.

Despite the Scottsdale City Council’s initial approval of the development in November, residents mobilized to secure support for a referendum. However, SB1543 effectively removes the possibility of a public vote on the matter. The bill was part of a larger package, as Gov. Hobbs signed a total of 38 bills while vetoing 33 others, including one that would have expanded local law enforcement’s power in relation to immigration enforcement.