Came across these photos that must have been taken sometime in 2004. Wow!Saturday, March 15, 2008
HCM 2003 ~ Opposing a North American Union
Sponsors: Rep. Biggs, Rep. Burges, Rep. Groe
HCM 2003 asks Congress to support House Concurrent Resolution (H.C.R.) 40 and not facilitate or promote a North American Union.
History
H.C.R. 40 was introduced in Congress by Congressman Virgil Goode of Virginia. H.C.R. 40 resolves that:
· The United States should not engage in the construction of a NAFTA Superhighway System;
· the United States should not enter into a North American Union with Mexico and Canada; and
· the President of the US should indicate strong opposition to these or any other proposals that threaten the sovereignty of the United States.
Provisions of HCM 2003:
· Asks that Congress support H.C.R. 40 or take other immediate action to withdraw the US from the SPP and involvement in NAFTA.
· Asks Congress to take action to withdraw the US from involvement in any activity that seeks to advance, authorize, fund or in any way promote a North American Union.
· Directs the Arizona Secretary of State to transmit copies to the President of the US, the President of the US Senate, the Speaker of the US House of Representatives and each member of Congress from Arizona.
This is the bill, the "postcard to Congress" that is generating so much hate mail to my colleagues who did not support the bill. Folks, settle down...it is just a postcard.
http://www.wearechangeaz.com/
HCM 2003 asks Congress to support House Concurrent Resolution (H.C.R.) 40 and not facilitate or promote a North American Union.
History
H.C.R. 40 was introduced in Congress by Congressman Virgil Goode of Virginia. H.C.R. 40 resolves that:
· The United States should not engage in the construction of a NAFTA Superhighway System;
· the United States should not enter into a North American Union with Mexico and Canada; and
· the President of the US should indicate strong opposition to these or any other proposals that threaten the sovereignty of the United States.
Provisions of HCM 2003:
· Asks that Congress support H.C.R. 40 or take other immediate action to withdraw the US from the SPP and involvement in NAFTA.
· Asks Congress to take action to withdraw the US from involvement in any activity that seeks to advance, authorize, fund or in any way promote a North American Union.
· Directs the Arizona Secretary of State to transmit copies to the President of the US, the President of the US Senate, the Speaker of the US House of Representatives and each member of Congress from Arizona.
This is the bill, the "postcard to Congress" that is generating so much hate mail to my colleagues who did not support the bill. Folks, settle down...it is just a postcard.
http://www.wearechangeaz.com/
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Abusive Constituent Mail & My Response
I honestly do not know how to begin this post other than to tell say that I sit here, for probably the third night this week, greatly disturbed over the amount of rude, abusive, threatening email from angry constituents that has filled my inbox and those of my colleagues. All who know me know that I love communicating with constituents and welcome the opportunity to hear differing viewpoints but a surprising amount of recent emails have been outrageous!
The email that spurred this post. the straw that broke the camel's (or elephant's) back was not directed to me but was an email sent to a colleague. The author of the email forwarded a copy to me and to a large number of media persons/outlets. I was shocked when I read the email and pray that the author, a patriot and a passionate American realizes his mistake and makes amends. What follows is my response, not directly to the author (I was asked not to contact him) but to another constituent addressing the same legislation/legislator.
I understand passion and admire persistence, even accept anger expressed in email communications but there is never, in my opinion, an excuse for rudeness or emotional abuse. Unfortunately many people do not realize that these type of emails almost always backfire. So many decisions made by government officials affect our daily life, it is easy to let emotions get out of control but proper thought must be given when communicating by email.
The effect of the inappropriate email is misunderstood...the abusive letters do not hurt, the threats do not motivate us to change our mind. Hardly any weight is given to these type letters since there is no sense of decorum. (I know this as I have been on the receiving end of many of these also, for a variety of votes.) It is possible to disagree with dignity and as I mentioned before, even possible to express extreme anger without being over-the-top rude. In fact, I think that you and I will probably end up disagreeing on this very subject but you and I will more than likely continue to engage each other despite disagreeing because we communicate without bashing each other, name calling or other disrespectful actions. Now, that being said, you and others may not have an ounce of respect for "Representative ABC". That is your choice and I am not attempting to change you mind, I am just saying that their ought to be given a bit of respect for the office. Am I making sense?
I commend you for taking the time to engage in the process but I beg you to urge your friends and colleagues to re-evaluate the effectiveness of their communications. It is so easy to hit the "delete" button when you read the first inappropriate comment...I believe the majority of my colleagues do this. it is our job to listen to our constituents...whether we agree with them or not but we do not have to take verbal or in this case, written abuse. "Representative ABC" is a reasonable, logical member who takes his/her job very seriously. If you have the opportunity to express your opinion on an issue before he/she votes, he/she will take what you say under advisement.
I find it interesting that I am "lobbying" on the behalf of "Representative ABC" as we are not close, not friends and do not work together as a rule but I must be honest in telling you that I admire him/her in that he/she is a very good representative for rural Arizona. He/She has been tireless in his/her advocacy for the residents of district XYZ and although I consider myself a bit more conservative then he/she, I can tell you that he/she is a conservative republican.
I appreciate you listening to me and hearing me out. Honestly, the disgustingly inappropriate emails we receive just sap our energy when for the most part, no matter how misguided we are or appear to be we believe we are doing the right thing...standing up for what is right. As blessed as we are to have this honor and serve in this capacity, just fighting the democrats day is and day out is difficult and depressing…the job sometimes appears hopeless and sucks the life out of you. Evil is everywhere here and people like you, who are gracious and take the time to say thanks are few and far between.. There is tremendous reward for doing what is right, whether it is acknowledged or not but there is never respite from the criticism…I believe even that can be weathered when it does not constitute abuse.
Most sincerely and with great respect,
RepGroe
The email that spurred this post. the straw that broke the camel's (or elephant's) back was not directed to me but was an email sent to a colleague. The author of the email forwarded a copy to me and to a large number of media persons/outlets. I was shocked when I read the email and pray that the author, a patriot and a passionate American realizes his mistake and makes amends. What follows is my response, not directly to the author (I was asked not to contact him) but to another constituent addressing the same legislation/legislator.
I understand passion and admire persistence, even accept anger expressed in email communications but there is never, in my opinion, an excuse for rudeness or emotional abuse. Unfortunately many people do not realize that these type of emails almost always backfire. So many decisions made by government officials affect our daily life, it is easy to let emotions get out of control but proper thought must be given when communicating by email.
The effect of the inappropriate email is misunderstood...the abusive letters do not hurt, the threats do not motivate us to change our mind. Hardly any weight is given to these type letters since there is no sense of decorum. (I know this as I have been on the receiving end of many of these also, for a variety of votes.) It is possible to disagree with dignity and as I mentioned before, even possible to express extreme anger without being over-the-top rude. In fact, I think that you and I will probably end up disagreeing on this very subject but you and I will more than likely continue to engage each other despite disagreeing because we communicate without bashing each other, name calling or other disrespectful actions. Now, that being said, you and others may not have an ounce of respect for "Representative ABC". That is your choice and I am not attempting to change you mind, I am just saying that their ought to be given a bit of respect for the office. Am I making sense?
I commend you for taking the time to engage in the process but I beg you to urge your friends and colleagues to re-evaluate the effectiveness of their communications. It is so easy to hit the "delete" button when you read the first inappropriate comment...I believe the majority of my colleagues do this. it is our job to listen to our constituents...whether we agree with them or not but we do not have to take verbal or in this case, written abuse. "Representative ABC" is a reasonable, logical member who takes his/her job very seriously. If you have the opportunity to express your opinion on an issue before he/she votes, he/she will take what you say under advisement.
I find it interesting that I am "lobbying" on the behalf of "Representative ABC" as we are not close, not friends and do not work together as a rule but I must be honest in telling you that I admire him/her in that he/she is a very good representative for rural Arizona. He/She has been tireless in his/her advocacy for the residents of district XYZ and although I consider myself a bit more conservative then he/she, I can tell you that he/she is a conservative republican.
I appreciate you listening to me and hearing me out. Honestly, the disgustingly inappropriate emails we receive just sap our energy when for the most part, no matter how misguided we are or appear to be we believe we are doing the right thing...standing up for what is right. As blessed as we are to have this honor and serve in this capacity, just fighting the democrats day is and day out is difficult and depressing…the job sometimes appears hopeless and sucks the life out of you. Evil is everywhere here and people like you, who are gracious and take the time to say thanks are few and far between.. There is tremendous reward for doing what is right, whether it is acknowledged or not but there is never respite from the criticism…I believe even that can be weathered when it does not constitute abuse.
Most sincerely and with great respect,
RepGroe
No Cash? Big Problem!
Treasurer: State's No-Cash Date Moving Forward
March 13th, 2008 @ 6:23pm
by Associated Press
PHOENIX (AP) _ The state's worsening revenue shortfall means the general fund will run out of cash it can legally spend earlier than the previous estimate of late May.
State Treasurer Dean Martin said his office is fine-tuning its calculations and expects to project a new no-cash date by next week. But he said the increased size of the current fiscal year's estimated shortfall _ to $1.2 billion currently from $970 million most recently _ likely moves up the date when there's no cash in the general fund to early May or even late April. That adds to pressure on legislative leaders who have yet to hammer out a budget compromise after two months of close-door talks. Gov. Janet Napolitano joined the talks this week.
Martin said the state still would have money in other accounts but that legislative authorization would be needed to spend those dollars to pay the regular expenses of state government. "The statues never contemplate a scenario where the appropriations don't match the revenue,'' he said. One possible source of cash would be the state Budget Stabilization Fund, a reserve now holding approximately $700 million. Tapping that $700 million rainy day fund could get the state "a few more weeks down the road,'' Martin said.
Tax collections have been hammered by the poor economy, especially in housing and consumer spending, and Martin said he saw dramatic drops in the state's cash on hand in January and February. "These are the months that we're normally accumulating cash. It's not happening,'' he said.
March 13th, 2008 @ 6:23pm
by Associated Press
PHOENIX (AP) _ The state's worsening revenue shortfall means the general fund will run out of cash it can legally spend earlier than the previous estimate of late May.
State Treasurer Dean Martin said his office is fine-tuning its calculations and expects to project a new no-cash date by next week. But he said the increased size of the current fiscal year's estimated shortfall _ to $1.2 billion currently from $970 million most recently _ likely moves up the date when there's no cash in the general fund to early May or even late April. That adds to pressure on legislative leaders who have yet to hammer out a budget compromise after two months of close-door talks. Gov. Janet Napolitano joined the talks this week.
Martin said the state still would have money in other accounts but that legislative authorization would be needed to spend those dollars to pay the regular expenses of state government. "The statues never contemplate a scenario where the appropriations don't match the revenue,'' he said. One possible source of cash would be the state Budget Stabilization Fund, a reserve now holding approximately $700 million. Tapping that $700 million rainy day fund could get the state "a few more weeks down the road,'' Martin said.
Tax collections have been hammered by the poor economy, especially in housing and consumer spending, and Martin said he saw dramatic drops in the state's cash on hand in January and February. "These are the months that we're normally accumulating cash. It's not happening,'' he said.
The Good, Bad, & The Ugly
Arizona Federation of Taxpayer's post details Tuesday's vote on the $250 Million Dollar Property Tax returning next year includes a list of the House Representatives who voted to repeal the tax and who voted against the bill. Both Representative McLain and I supported this legislation and I am confident that when Senator Gould has the opportunity to vote, he too will vote "YES".
T.G. I. F....Oh Wait
Caffeine IV, STAT!
After an exhausting, emotionally draining (listened to testimony from family members of victims of 9/11 and their opinions on the Arizona 9/11 Memorial), & unexpectedly long work day yesturday, I am in great need of refreshing.
Wednesday started out with my favorite committee mtg, Health (ugh!), followed by a lunch mtg with the folks from the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, Floor, Third Read, and an eight-hour Appropriations Committee meeting. I left for work at 7:00am and returned home after 10:00pm!
Today, no Water and Agriculture Committee mtg but instead, Republican Caucus at 10:15 am. Floor at 1:00 where we have several Third Reads and eight COW Calendars, then a special Appropriations meeting that looks to be lengthy as there is a controversial ELL-related bill on the agenda.
Because of the long day, I am going to be unable to attend the London Bridge Friends of the NRA Banquet taking place at Shugrue's in Lake Havasu City this evening. Although I attempt to attend this event every year, I have yet to make the celebration as they take place on a weeknight during session. Sorry LB Friends of the NRA but KUDOS to all you do!
Note to self: Describe, in future blog post, how the committee meeting was derailed by a Minister representing United Methodist Church and Valley Interfaith Project. Testimony from this "gentleman" blindsided the entire committee membership.
After an exhausting, emotionally draining (listened to testimony from family members of victims of 9/11 and their opinions on the Arizona 9/11 Memorial), & unexpectedly long work day yesturday, I am in great need of refreshing.
Wednesday started out with my favorite committee mtg, Health (ugh!), followed by a lunch mtg with the folks from the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, Floor, Third Read, and an eight-hour Appropriations Committee meeting. I left for work at 7:00am and returned home after 10:00pm!
Today, no Water and Agriculture Committee mtg but instead, Republican Caucus at 10:15 am. Floor at 1:00 where we have several Third Reads and eight COW Calendars, then a special Appropriations meeting that looks to be lengthy as there is a controversial ELL-related bill on the agenda.
Because of the long day, I am going to be unable to attend the London Bridge Friends of the NRA Banquet taking place at Shugrue's in Lake Havasu City this evening. Although I attempt to attend this event every year, I have yet to make the celebration as they take place on a weeknight during session. Sorry LB Friends of the NRA but KUDOS to all you do!
Note to self: Describe, in future blog post, how the committee meeting was derailed by a Minister representing United Methodist Church and Valley Interfaith Project. Testimony from this "gentleman" blindsided the entire committee membership.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Sheriff Joe's Boxers
Sheriff Joe Arpaio is selling his famous pink boxers and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the sheriff's posse patrols.
Sheriff Joe dyed the boxers pink in 1995 to keep the inmates from stealing them, but they're still a hot item. To buy a pair of these boxers, call (602) 876-1895.
Sheriff Joe dyed the boxers pink in 1995 to keep the inmates from stealing them, but they're still a hot item. To buy a pair of these boxers, call (602) 876-1895.
AZ House Votes to Repeal Statewide Property Tax
House Speaker Jim Weiers (R-10)
News Release
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
House backs homeowners with repeal of property tax
(State Capitol, Phoenix) – The Arizona House today helped ensure homeowners in the state avoid a $250 million tax increase.
The House passed HB2220, which permanently repeals the statewide property tax.
Two years ago, the Legislature suspended the property tax for three years. The tax reappears if the Legislature takes no action this year. The bill, sponsored by House Speaker Jim Weiers, now moves to the Senate.
“While this bill helps our struggling economy by eliminating the tax on businesses, it is also for the small guy – by keeping Arizona families in their homes,” Weiers, R-Phoenix, said. “I do not want to see our homeowners burdened by this massive tax increase.”
Without action, property owners will see the tax return in January. At a time when foreclosures in Arizona are skyrocketing, this bill brings a little relief, Weiers said.
News Release
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
House backs homeowners with repeal of property tax
(State Capitol, Phoenix) – The Arizona House today helped ensure homeowners in the state avoid a $250 million tax increase.
The House passed HB2220, which permanently repeals the statewide property tax.
Two years ago, the Legislature suspended the property tax for three years. The tax reappears if the Legislature takes no action this year. The bill, sponsored by House Speaker Jim Weiers, now moves to the Senate.
“While this bill helps our struggling economy by eliminating the tax on businesses, it is also for the small guy – by keeping Arizona families in their homes,” Weiers, R-Phoenix, said. “I do not want to see our homeowners burdened by this massive tax increase.”
Without action, property owners will see the tax return in January. At a time when foreclosures in Arizona are skyrocketing, this bill brings a little relief, Weiers said.
House Approves Ultimate Fighting (It's not what you think.)
News Release
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ultimate Fighting bill gets Ultimate House approval
(State Capitol, Phoenix) – Fans of Ultimate Fighting Champions are one step closer to seeing the popular sport coming to Arizona.
The House passed HB2834 Tuesday, which directs the Arizona Boxing Commission to adopt a set of rules that would permit unarmed combat contests to take place in the state.
“This sport is undeniably the fastest growing sport in the nation and we are unable to host these action-packed events,” said bill sponsor Rep. Jonathan Paton, R-Tucson. “We have turned away this economic development opportunity for too long. It is time to give Arizona fans a chance to see the action live.”
Jiu-jitsu, judo, karate and wrestling are among the forms of combat that would be sanctioned under the rules adopted by the boxing commission.
The bill moves to the Senate for consideration.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ultimate Fighting bill gets Ultimate House approval
(State Capitol, Phoenix) – Fans of Ultimate Fighting Champions are one step closer to seeing the popular sport coming to Arizona.
The House passed HB2834 Tuesday, which directs the Arizona Boxing Commission to adopt a set of rules that would permit unarmed combat contests to take place in the state.
“This sport is undeniably the fastest growing sport in the nation and we are unable to host these action-packed events,” said bill sponsor Rep. Jonathan Paton, R-Tucson. “We have turned away this economic development opportunity for too long. It is time to give Arizona fans a chance to see the action live.”
Jiu-jitsu, judo, karate and wrestling are among the forms of combat that would be sanctioned under the rules adopted by the boxing commission.
The bill moves to the Senate for consideration.
House Passes Day Laborers Restrictions
News Release
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kavanagh bill addresses growing day labor problems
(State Capitol, Phoenix) – Day laborers would be banned from standing on the side of the road seeking jobs under a bill passed by the House Tuesday.
HB2412 bans day laborers from standing on the side of the road, flagging down passing vehicles and helping to create a traffic and safety problem. Day laborers have been congregating in increasingly larger groups along streets, in parking lots, on sidewalks and on lawns.
“Too many people have decided that the best place to find work is along the roadside,” Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, said. “We cannot ignore the real nuisance and safety problems they create.”
They also stand in front of businesses, impeding regular commerce, Kavanagh said.
“These workers obstruct our streets and sidewalks while attempting to solicit work and prospective employers stop on the side of the road,” Kavanagh said. “Communities don’t need this kind of disruption.”
The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kavanagh bill addresses growing day labor problems
(State Capitol, Phoenix) – Day laborers would be banned from standing on the side of the road seeking jobs under a bill passed by the House Tuesday.
HB2412 bans day laborers from standing on the side of the road, flagging down passing vehicles and helping to create a traffic and safety problem. Day laborers have been congregating in increasingly larger groups along streets, in parking lots, on sidewalks and on lawns.
“Too many people have decided that the best place to find work is along the roadside,” Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, said. “We cannot ignore the real nuisance and safety problems they create.”
They also stand in front of businesses, impeding regular commerce, Kavanagh said.
“These workers obstruct our streets and sidewalks while attempting to solicit work and prospective employers stop on the side of the road,” Kavanagh said. “Communities don’t need this kind of disruption.”
The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
House Republican Caucus Calendar for 3/13
This is the Caucus Calendar for tomorrow. Remember that caucus is an opportunity for the entire body of republican members in the House to gather and discuss bills that are coming up for third read in the near future. If you would like further details on any of these bills please visit the www.azleg.gov website and plug the bill number in the upper right hand corner. As always, you can shoot me an email for further information or clarification. More than likely, we will be voting on these bills tomorrow (3/13) or Monday (3/17).
Bill Number Short Title Committee Date Action
HB 2154 county plans; major amendments
SPONSOR: PATON CMMA 1/29 DP (10-0-0-0-0)
HB 2672 small installment loan act
SPONSOR: BIGGS COM 2/27 DPA (6-1-0-3-0)
HB 2557 schools; standards; PE; art; music
SPONSOR: ANDERSON ED 2/20 DPA (8-1-0-1-0)
HB 2696 schools; American competitiveness project fund
SPONSOR: SCHAPIRA ED 3/5 DPA (7-1-1-1-0)
HB 2141 WA S/E: water supply status; disclosure
SPONSOR: ABLESER ENV 3/5 DPA/SE (10-0-0-0-0)
HB 2151 GOV S/E: Iran; public fund divestment
SPONSOR: PATON GOV 3/4 DPA/SE (8-0-0-0-0)
HB 2478 redaction orders; expiration; notice; funds
SPONSOR: ADAMS GOV 2/12 DPA (6-1-0-1-0)
HB 2496 HED S/E: state board for community colleges
SPONSOR: BURNS J HED 2/26 DPA/SE (8-0-0-2-0)
HB 2131 homeowners' associations; registration; disclosure
SPONSOR: CAMPBELL CH HSPR 1/28 DPA (9-0-0-1-0)
HB 2451 election security provisions
SPONSOR: REAGAN JUD 2/21 DP (8-0-0-2-0)
HB 2660 joint; several liability; criminal offenses
SPONSOR: NICHOLS JUD 2/14 DP (9-1-0-0-0)
HB 2740 graffiti; parent responsibility
SPONSOR: CAMPBELL CH JUD 3/6 DPA (7-2-0-1-0)
HB 2254 fingerprinting board; good cause exceptions
SPONSOR: WEIERS JP NRPS 2/20 DPA (8-0-0-2-0)
HB 2381 emergency telecommunication services; admin costs
SPONSOR: WEIERS JP NRPS 2/6 DP (10-0-0-0-0)
HB 2511 oil and gas; shut-in royalty
SPONSOR: KONOPNICKI NRPS 2/20 DP (8-0-0-2-0)
HB 2753 traffic citations; payments; reinstatement fees
SPONSOR: MIRANDA B NRPS 3/5 DP (7-0-0-3-0)
HB 2116 CORP; joinders; credited service
SPONSOR: MCCLURE PIR 2/18 DPA (7-0-0-3-0)
HB 2098 corporate tax credit; tuition organizations
SPONSOR: YARBROUGH WM 1/17 DP (6-3-0-1-0)
HB 2100 tax credits; withholding tax reduction
SPONSOR: YARBROUGH WM 2/4 DPA (6-3-0-1-0)
HB 2339 I didn't pay enough fund
SPONSOR: BURGES WM 2/18 DP (5-4-0-1-0)
Bill Number Short Title Committee Date Action
HB 2154 county plans; major amendments
SPONSOR: PATON CMMA 1/29 DP (10-0-0-0-0)
HB 2672 small installment loan act
SPONSOR: BIGGS COM 2/27 DPA (6-1-0-3-0)
HB 2557 schools; standards; PE; art; music
SPONSOR: ANDERSON ED 2/20 DPA (8-1-0-1-0)
HB 2696 schools; American competitiveness project fund
SPONSOR: SCHAPIRA ED 3/5 DPA (7-1-1-1-0)
HB 2141 WA S/E: water supply status; disclosure
SPONSOR: ABLESER ENV 3/5 DPA/SE (10-0-0-0-0)
HB 2151 GOV S/E: Iran; public fund divestment
SPONSOR: PATON GOV 3/4 DPA/SE (8-0-0-0-0)
HB 2478 redaction orders; expiration; notice; funds
SPONSOR: ADAMS GOV 2/12 DPA (6-1-0-1-0)
HB 2496 HED S/E: state board for community colleges
SPONSOR: BURNS J HED 2/26 DPA/SE (8-0-0-2-0)
HB 2131 homeowners' associations; registration; disclosure
SPONSOR: CAMPBELL CH HSPR 1/28 DPA (9-0-0-1-0)
HB 2451 election security provisions
SPONSOR: REAGAN JUD 2/21 DP (8-0-0-2-0)
HB 2660 joint; several liability; criminal offenses
SPONSOR: NICHOLS JUD 2/14 DP (9-1-0-0-0)
HB 2740 graffiti; parent responsibility
SPONSOR: CAMPBELL CH JUD 3/6 DPA (7-2-0-1-0)
HB 2254 fingerprinting board; good cause exceptions
SPONSOR: WEIERS JP NRPS 2/20 DPA (8-0-0-2-0)
HB 2381 emergency telecommunication services; admin costs
SPONSOR: WEIERS JP NRPS 2/6 DP (10-0-0-0-0)
HB 2511 oil and gas; shut-in royalty
SPONSOR: KONOPNICKI NRPS 2/20 DP (8-0-0-2-0)
HB 2753 traffic citations; payments; reinstatement fees
SPONSOR: MIRANDA B NRPS 3/5 DP (7-0-0-3-0)
HB 2116 CORP; joinders; credited service
SPONSOR: MCCLURE PIR 2/18 DPA (7-0-0-3-0)
HB 2098 corporate tax credit; tuition organizations
SPONSOR: YARBROUGH WM 1/17 DP (6-3-0-1-0)
HB 2100 tax credits; withholding tax reduction
SPONSOR: YARBROUGH WM 2/4 DPA (6-3-0-1-0)
HB 2339 I didn't pay enough fund
SPONSOR: BURGES WM 2/18 DP (5-4-0-1-0)
Constituent Mail ~ HB 2677 Real ID Act; Implementation Prohibited
HB 2677 prohibits Arizona from participating in the Federal REAL ID Act of 2005 (REAL ID).
Below is an email in support of this bill:
Greetings Everyone:
Regardless of whether or not you live in Arizona . The Real ID ACT if implemented, will affect you . Therefore we need everyone all over the country to write to the House members in Arizona and encourage them to support HB2677. If we fail , your information including medical, financial, the number of weapons registered to you , number of vehicles and what they are, your religious affiliations will ultimately be available to groups, agencies, foreign governments. If it pertains to you it will be available, whether you like it or not. Crazy you say? Well no, here is a fact: the institution that will be compiling the data is a international Company named the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators(AAMVA).
So lets kill this REAL ID bill by supporting HB 2677 in the state of Arizona.
Below is an email in support of this bill:
Greetings Everyone:
Regardless of whether or not you live in Arizona . The Real ID ACT if implemented, will affect you . Therefore we need everyone all over the country to write to the House members in Arizona and encourage them to support HB2677. If we fail , your information including medical, financial, the number of weapons registered to you , number of vehicles and what they are, your religious affiliations will ultimately be available to groups, agencies, foreign governments. If it pertains to you it will be available, whether you like it or not. Crazy you say? Well no, here is a fact: the institution that will be compiling the data is a international Company named the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators(AAMVA).
So lets kill this REAL ID bill by supporting HB 2677 in the state of Arizona.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Constituent Mail ~ HB 2573 off-highway vehicles; user fee
House Bill 2573 creates an off-highway vehicle user indicia, off-highway vehicle equipment requirements and off-highway vehicle operating regulations.
I voted "NO" on this bill for a variety of reasons (see recent post titled "Passage of HB 2573 is Criminal") and continue to work towards this bills demise. Below is an email from a constituent opposing this bill:
Thank you for trying to do the right thing by voting no on HB 2753. The law is absurd, and adding another layer of bureaucracy is equally absurd.
Families who have these vehicles I think for the most part try and protect the environment. I would go for more education on the environment and how to protect it; what to do and not do while using these vehicles. Your concern on the law itself is right on, as far as being not defining and making it a class 3-misdemeanor. I don’t know what it is with law makers, you pass laws and think that everyone is going to understand and obey them. When you try to pass a law such as this one that is opened to so much interpretation from the officers, attorneys’ and judges then the public becomes the big looser. I seriously think Arizona Game & Fish see the dollars being brought in more than anything else.
Thank you for seeing that and doing what you could do to stop it by voting “nay.”
I voted "NO" on this bill for a variety of reasons (see recent post titled "Passage of HB 2573 is Criminal") and continue to work towards this bills demise. Below is an email from a constituent opposing this bill:
Thank you for trying to do the right thing by voting no on HB 2753. The law is absurd, and adding another layer of bureaucracy is equally absurd.
Families who have these vehicles I think for the most part try and protect the environment. I would go for more education on the environment and how to protect it; what to do and not do while using these vehicles. Your concern on the law itself is right on, as far as being not defining and making it a class 3-misdemeanor. I don’t know what it is with law makers, you pass laws and think that everyone is going to understand and obey them. When you try to pass a law such as this one that is opened to so much interpretation from the officers, attorneys’ and judges then the public becomes the big looser. I seriously think Arizona Game & Fish see the dollars being brought in more than anything else.
Thank you for seeing that and doing what you could do to stop it by voting “nay.”
HB 2389 ~ Misconduct Involving Weapons; Means; Transportation
From the Arizona Citizens Defense League:
HB 2389 would make changes to Arizona law regarding carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle. Current law states that, without a concealed weapons (CCW) permit, it is permissible to carry a weapon or weapons ".in a case, holster, scabbard, pack or luggage that is carried within a means of transportation or within a storage compartment, map pocket, trunk or glove compartment of a means of transportation."
Unfortunately, in 1994 an Arizona Appellate court decision determined that "within a means of transportation" meant it must be obvious under ordinary observation to someone outside the vehicle that there is a weapon inside the vehicle. This created conflicts interpreting the statute. As a result:
. Wearing a holstered firearm within a vehicle = concealed carry, requiring a CCW permit. But, that same holstered firearm in a map pocket, trunk or glove compartment, equally accessible by a vehicle's occupants, does not require a CCW permit.
. Possessing a concealed weapons permit and being armed may put other occupants in the vehicle, who do not possess a CCW permit, at risk of arrest because of their proximity to your firearm. Yet, if that same weapon were in a map pocket, trunk or glove compartment accessible by all the vehicle's occupants, no crime is committed.
The proposed language clarifies that it permissible to carry a weapon, visibly or concealed, anywhere within a means of transportation, excluding public transit. Much like the states of New Mexico and Texas, it would be legal for any law abiding citizen to carry anywhere inside a vehicle without the need of a permit, just like it currently is inside their own home or business, eliminating the confusing hodgepodge of lawful and unlawful places currently listed in statute. This would benefit both law enforcement and the law-abiding, making the law clear and rational, not subject to confusing roadside interpretations.
Dave Kopp
President
Arizona Citizens Defense League
P.O. Box 10325
Glendale, AZ 85318
Email: president@azcdl.org
Web site: http://www.azcdl.org/
Phone/Fax: 623-594-8521
Mobile: 623-670-3516
HB 2389 would make changes to Arizona law regarding carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle. Current law states that, without a concealed weapons (CCW) permit, it is permissible to carry a weapon or weapons ".in a case, holster, scabbard, pack or luggage that is carried within a means of transportation or within a storage compartment, map pocket, trunk or glove compartment of a means of transportation."
Unfortunately, in 1994 an Arizona Appellate court decision determined that "within a means of transportation" meant it must be obvious under ordinary observation to someone outside the vehicle that there is a weapon inside the vehicle. This created conflicts interpreting the statute. As a result:
. Wearing a holstered firearm within a vehicle = concealed carry, requiring a CCW permit. But, that same holstered firearm in a map pocket, trunk or glove compartment, equally accessible by a vehicle's occupants, does not require a CCW permit.
. Possessing a concealed weapons permit and being armed may put other occupants in the vehicle, who do not possess a CCW permit, at risk of arrest because of their proximity to your firearm. Yet, if that same weapon were in a map pocket, trunk or glove compartment accessible by all the vehicle's occupants, no crime is committed.
The proposed language clarifies that it permissible to carry a weapon, visibly or concealed, anywhere within a means of transportation, excluding public transit. Much like the states of New Mexico and Texas, it would be legal for any law abiding citizen to carry anywhere inside a vehicle without the need of a permit, just like it currently is inside their own home or business, eliminating the confusing hodgepodge of lawful and unlawful places currently listed in statute. This would benefit both law enforcement and the law-abiding, making the law clear and rational, not subject to confusing roadside interpretations.
Dave Kopp
President
Arizona Citizens Defense League
P.O. Box 10325
Glendale, AZ 85318
Email: president@azcdl.org
Web site: http://www.azcdl.org/
Phone/Fax: 623-594-8521
Mobile: 623-670-3516
Education Bills on Third Read
Today, there are a number of key education bills up for third read.
HB 2085 (scholarships; section 504 plan pupils)
This bill would expand the special education voucher to Section 504 plan students.
HB 2286 (school district boards; training)
This bill would require prospective school district governing board members to complete six hours of training.
HB 2560 (school districts; compliance; withholding monies)
This bill would allow up to 10% to be withheld from a district if it is deemed not in compliance with 15-341 (mandatory board duties), Chapter 5 (employment issues), and Chapter 7 (curriculum)
HB 2567 (school distrct boards; family members)
This bill would prospectively prohibit family members and married persons to serve on the same school district governing board if it is a three-member board.
HB 2085 (scholarships; section 504 plan pupils)
This bill would expand the special education voucher to Section 504 plan students.
HB 2286 (school district boards; training)
This bill would require prospective school district governing board members to complete six hours of training.
HB 2560 (school districts; compliance; withholding monies)
This bill would allow up to 10% to be withheld from a district if it is deemed not in compliance with 15-341 (mandatory board duties), Chapter 5 (employment issues), and Chapter 7 (curriculum)
HB 2567 (school distrct boards; family members)
This bill would prospectively prohibit family members and married persons to serve on the same school district governing board if it is a three-member board.
Governor Vetos Spending Freeze ~ Veto Letter on HB 2857
Gov. Janet Napolitano has vetoed a spending freeze approved last week by the Legislature that would have prevented state agencies from spending about $580 million already assigned to them.
Less Bruising Than What I Do Now
League seeks roller derby queens
Senta Scarborough
The Arizona RepublicMar. 11, 2008 08:40 AM
Wanted: Women with a high tolerance for pain who are willing to bond with other girls from all walks of life and love to roller skate.And if you are neither shy nor afraid of breaking some bones in a brawl, then the Arizona Derby Dames, an all female roller-derby league, is looking for some "fresh meat" like you.
The league is holding try-outs Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Mesa Skateland, 7 E. Southern Ave. Women must be at least 18 to try out. Bring $5 to enter, as well as water and additional money to rent skates, if needed.
Senta Scarborough
The Arizona RepublicMar. 11, 2008 08:40 AM
Wanted: Women with a high tolerance for pain who are willing to bond with other girls from all walks of life and love to roller skate.And if you are neither shy nor afraid of breaking some bones in a brawl, then the Arizona Derby Dames, an all female roller-derby league, is looking for some "fresh meat" like you.
The league is holding try-outs Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Mesa Skateland, 7 E. Southern Ave. Women must be at least 18 to try out. Bring $5 to enter, as well as water and additional money to rent skates, if needed.
AZ Free Enterprise Club Press Release
Gov. Napolitano Sets Stage for Property Tax Increase
Recent comments conflict with “no tax increase” commitment
Recent comments conflict with “no tax increase” commitment
Phoenix, AZ – The Arizona Free Enterprise Club, a pro-economic growth advocacy group, today called on lawmakers to pass the permanent repeal of the state equalization rate, which, if not passed, will increase taxes on all Arizona taxpayers next year by about $250 million.
According to The Arizona Republic, Gov. Napolitano told an audience of educators that legislative efforts to prevent this tax increase are misguided because the state faces billions in deficits.
“The governor’s support for this tax increase is a direct departure from what she wrote in her 2009 budget plan, where she pledged not to raise taxes,” said Steve Voeller, president of the Club.
In trying to sell the tax increase, the governor told the group that the tax equates to “two lattes a year.”
“Points should be deducted for unoriginality,” Voeller said. “When politicians justify tax increases by calculating them as lattes or steak dinners, they imply that we can’t figure out what’s really going on.”
“Property tax increases affect everyone, including those who can’t afford to drink lattes in the first place.”
“Property taxes continue to rise as valuations fall, so whether it’s one, two or 200 lattes, tax increases in today’s market will hurt everyone’s bottom line.”
“This is especially perplexing since the governor recently argued that people need help with their rising adjustable rate mortgages. Wouldn’t one way to do that include preventing property taxes from going up?”
Today's Third Read Calendar
There is a lengthy Third Read Calendar scheduled for today and, I believe two COW calendars. With 40 bills to Third Read, I am not going to list them all here but will mention that some of them are a bit controversial such as:
- HB2412 criminal trespass; day laborers
- HB2483 ignition strength of cigarettes; regulation
- HB2588 lottery game; energy efficient schools
- HB2847 autism; covered benefit denial prohibited
- HCM2003 opposing a North American Union
Leading the Pach...
The latest Pachyderm rankings are posted and once again, yours truly places in the highest category as a Reagan Republican with a perfect score of 100!
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