Senate Greenlights Axon Bill, Igniting Fiery Legislative Debate

The Arizona House has approved a controversial bill allowing Axon, the Taser manufacturer, to proceed with plans for a large apartment complex in Scottsdale. This development comes despite considerable opposition from local residents.

Senate Bill 1543 passed with a 40-19 vote and effectively nullifies a referendum that would allow Scottsdale voters to voice their opinions in November 2026. The opponents of the project collected 26,000 signatures to push for this referendum.

Supporters of the bill, while recognizing the nullification of the referendum, expressed concern that delaying the project could hinder economic growth in the area.

This legislation has divided Republican lawmakers, with those representing Scottsdale warning that such state intervention could set a precedent for similar actions in other cities throughout Arizona.

At the center of the debate is Axon’s significant economic influence on Scottsdale. Advocates, including several Democrats, argue that Axon’s departure could be a possibility if the project faces further delays, echoing the company’s CEO’s earlier statements. Initially, Axon purchased state trust land for a headquarters, but the project has expanded to include a hotel and nearly 2,000 residential units.

The bill, which has received substantial lobbying from Axon and its CEO Rick Smith, now moves to the Senate for deliberation before heading to Governor Katie Hobbs for final approval.

Axon has been a staple in Scottsdale for 20 years, valued at nearly $43 billion. Beyond producing stun guns, the company manufactures police body cameras and manages the cloud storage of related footage.

Despite receiving initial support from the Scottsdale City Council, a new majority opposes the project. In response, opponents gathered enough signatures to stall any approval until the scheduled vote in November 2026.

Rep. Alexander Kolodin, R-Scottsdale, criticized the bill for undermining the voices of local citizens who mobilized to initiate the referendum. He asserted that the measure disregards the democratic process.

Rep. Joseph Chaplik, R-Scottsdale, took a stand against the bill during a heated debate, emphasizing the importance of allowing voters to express their opinions through the planned election. Chaplik alleged that Smith made threats regarding his political future due to his opposition.

Proponents of the development claim that it is vital for Arizona’s economic progress. Rep. David Livingston, R-Peoria, articulated a pressing need for more housing options in the state, highlighting a demand for both single-family and multi-family residences.

The intensity of the debate was palpable, with all Scottsdale representatives opposing the bill. At one point, House Speaker Steve Montenegro had to intervene to maintain decorum.

Despite using tactics typically employed by minority Democrats to slow the debate, opponents of the bill could not prevent its passage. The legislation specifically addresses only Axon’s development.

Chaplik expressed concerns over the singular focus on promoting Axon’s interests, arguing that local citizens deserve the opportunity to vote. He emphasized that the issue should remain local.

Conversely, Rep. Tony Rivero, R-Peoria, stated that the previous agreement between Axon and the city’s leadership warrants legislative involvement. He argued that the city’s new stance jeopardizes economic stability and could attract attention from states eager to welcome businesses like Axon.

Rivero underscored the importance of retaining Axon for the economic wellbeing of Arizona, citing the potential loss of jobs and financial investment integral to the state’s economy.