Shope Tackle ‘Hobbs’ Housing Affordability Crisis in Bold New Committee Role

By Daniel Stefanski |

An influential Republican state senator is poised to lead a critical committee for the upcoming Arizona legislative session. Senator T.J. Shope has been appointed by Senate President Warren Petersen to chair the Committee on Natural Resources, a role that comes with significant responsibilities, including negotiating the Senate’s approval of Arizona’s participation in the post-2026 Colorado River Operations Agreement.

This committee will play a vital role in shaping policies amid a divided Arizona government over the next two years. According to a statement from the Senate Republican Caucus, recent decisions by the Hobbs Administration have led to tensions, particularly concerning the exclusion of Pinal County from an ‘Ag-to-Urban Conservation Program’ that had been under negotiation. Furthermore, the administration’s push for a rulemaking package has raised concerns about the exclusion of Queen Creek and Buckeye, two key areas for affordable growth in Maricopa County.

“As the sponsor of the Ag-to-Urban Conservation Program, Chairman Shope knows that Arizona can enhance water conservation while improving housing affordability in Maricopa and Pinal counties,” President Petersen stated. “These areas have been adversely affected by the Governor’s policies. If the Executive fails to address housing affordability during Colorado River negotiations, Chairman Shope will lead the Senate’s effort to advocate for Arizonans.”

Chairman Shope expressed his commitment to balancing agricultural interests with housing development. “Representing Pinal County, I recognize how agriculture and homebuilding are integral to Arizona’s economy,” he remarked. “The Ag-to-Urban Conservation Program could have facilitated cooperation between these sectors, but Governor Hobbs has hindered progress. I appreciate the President’s trust in me to enhance Arizona’s water security and housing affordability.”

In addition to his new role, Shope will continue as the chamber’s Senate President Pro Tempore for the 57th Arizona Legislature. Previously, he served as the Chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee and was the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources, Energy & Water.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.