Lawmakers: Learning from Our Past Missteps is Crucial

In the wake of a contentious 2024 legislative session, Arizona lawmakers are now reflecting on their achievements and the strategies employed. Despite calls for a collaborative approach, there remains a significant divide, particularly among the majority party. State Senator Brian Fernandez of Yuma emphasized the necessity of moving beyond partisan tactics to genuinely address the needs of all Arizonans.

Fernandez criticized Republican lawmakers for spending valuable time pushing partisan policies that ultimately met with Governor Hobbs’ vetoes. This year saw a record number of vetoed bills, highlighting a growing necessity for pragmatic legislation that could foster bipartisan support.

Instead of pursuing unifying measures, many legislative decisions only widened the partisan gap. A prominent example was the Legislature’s partisan vote to override Governor Hobbs’ veto on contentious border enforcement legislation. This move has the potential to financially burden the state significantly. Additionally, lawmakers advanced legislation to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms, potentially lay a legal foundation for discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, and enforce age verification for online content, raising concerns about censorship.

The state budget also came under scrutiny. In the final weeks of the session, lawmakers proposed a budget that made deep cuts to essential services, including education and infrastructure. Groups like the Arizona Water Infrastructure Finance Authority expressed serious concerns about sacrificing long-term investments for short-term fixes.

This approach prompted Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes to file a lawsuit against state leadership for reallocating opioid settlement funds, meant for addiction prevention, to address budget shortfalls. Although the lawsuit has been dismissed, it serves as a warning against relying on temporary solutions to complex issues.

As the next legislative session approaches, Senator Fernandez urges his colleagues to reassess their priorities. A future built on bipartisan cooperation is essential for effectively tackling the challenges facing Arizona. The state’s prosperity hinges on lawmakers’ willingness to transcend political divides and work together for the greater good.

Senator Brian Fernandez represents Arizona’s 23rd Legislative District in the state Senate.