NW Valley Times

Following the announcement of a new House Ad Hoc Committee on Executive Budget Mismanagement, Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro has disclosed the committee members and its objectives. The committee comprises Republican Representatives Matt Gress (Chair), Justin Olson (Vice Chair), Michael Way, Nick Kupper, Neal Carter, and Selina Bliss; alongside Democratic Representatives Nancy Gutierrez, Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, and Kevin Volk.

The committee's task is to review current executive agency programs and the Governor’s January Executive Budget proposal. It aims to develop recommendations for managing cost overruns and preventing financial mismanagement from affecting state services.

Chairman Gress expressed gratitude for being appointed to lead the committee, stating, "The Executive’s proper implementation and management of the state budget is of critical importance to ensure our investments truly benefit the people of Arizona. Our role is to focus on the facts and the figures, and to deliver transparency for taxpayers."

Speaker Montenegro established this committee in response to recent financial issues within the Hobbs administration. Notably, the Department of Child Safety’s Congregate Care program nearly faced bankruptcy until legislative Republicans intervened. Similar budget issues have been observed in other programs such as Developmental Disabilities and AHCCCS.

"We’re seeing a complete breakdown in basic budget planning," Speaker Montenegro remarked. "Governor Hobbs’ pattern is to overspend, under plan, and wait until the last possible moment to admit failure. House Republicans are stepping in to protect taxpayers, ensure responsible spending, and keep essential services running—not to rubber stamp more of the same."

Details about the first meeting of this committee will be announced soon.

Steve Montenegro serves as Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives for Legislative District 29.

Information from this article can be found here.