The Arizona House of Representatives has passed a revised budget package, incorporating significant changes advocated by House Republicans. This development follows the governor’s vetoes of both the original House-passed budget and a continuation budget intended to maintain state government operations.
Speaker of the House Steve Montenegro commented on the situation, stating, “We’ve stood firm all session—pushing for a budget that prioritizes public safety, school choice, lower costs, and government accountability.” He added that despite the challenges posed by a divided government, they chose to improve the existing plan rather than allow a shutdown. The efforts resulted in over $100 million in savings and reforms.
The initial budget proposal from the House included extensive reforms and tax relief but was vetoed. Nevertheless, House Republicans persisted in negotiations to achieve substantial improvements.
Among the priorities secured in the revised budget are $100 million in spending reductions compared to an earlier Senate-Governor negotiated plan and stronger oversight provisions for public funds. Other notable elements include new reporting requirements for the Department of Economic Security, investments in public safety such as pay raises for DPS troopers, modernization of vehicle fleets, infrastructure improvements on major routes like I-10 and State Routes 347 and 303/155th Avenue Interchange, as well as permanent property tax exemptions for certain veterans.
Majority Leader Michael Carbone remarked on their actions: “House Republicans passed a conservative, structurally balanced budget on June 13…This revised budget isn’t the one we would have written…we fought for and secured serious improvements.”
The decision not to vote on the governor’s original proposal was driven by concerns over excessive spending and lack of accountability. The approved revisions aim to prevent a government shutdown while maintaining essential services for Arizona families.
Speaker Montenegro reiterated their commitment: “Our principles haven’t changed…We held the line, improved the bill, and protected the priorities of our voters.”
