Senate Budget Vote Delayed as Hints of GOP Compromise Emerge

The Arizona Senate has delayed its vote on the state budget proposal, indicating ongoing negotiations with House Republicans. This delay arises as lawmakers seek to prevent a potential government shutdown in under two weeks.

Amendments to the Senate’s budget plan are scheduled for discussion on Thursday morning, with a tentative vote set for later that day. Senate President Warren Petersen attributed the holdup to the drafting of these amendments, which incorporate input from both House Democrats and Republicans.

Negotiations have picked up pace, especially as some House Republicans re-engage with their Senate counterparts after initially pursuing a separate budget plan weeks ago. This collaborative effort contrasts sharply with the House GOP’s independent proposal, which has met significant resistance from Democratic lawmakers and Governor Katie Hobbs.

While a bipartisan budget plan has been in discussion among Senate members and Democrats, House Republicans continue to work on their own version. House Democrats labeled the GOP’s proposal a “sham,” and even Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman John Kavanagh expressed skepticism, noting that Governor Hobbs is unlikely to endorse the House’s approach.

The competing budget efforts have also strained legislative staff, who have been working extended hours to accommodate both plans. With a deadline of June 30 looming, agreement is crucial to avert a state government shutdown.

Proponents of both budget plans maintain they are not drastically different; however, significant disparities exist. The House’s $17.3 billion budget proposal, recently passed by a unanimous vote, includes stricter oversight for Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, along with reduced funding for K-12 education and Medicaid services compared to the Senate’s $17.6 billion plan.

Should the Senate approve its budget proposal on Thursday, it will then require a House vote before being sent to Governor Hobbs for her signature.