Denise Epstein

This bill appropriates $2.5 million to the Department of Environmental Quality for grants and contracts with localities, non-profits, and private businesses "for research, demonstration projects, new technologies, market development and source reduction studies and implementation of the recommendations or reports" under the Arizona Recycling Program. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives which do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful and Out-Of-Control Spending through a $2.5 Million Appropriation to Subsidize Recycling Research and Development.

This bill makes non-governmental organizations subject to criminal penalties for "participating in a human smuggling organization or operation." Additionally, the bill modifies existing law which required a person to be "acting within the scope of employment and in behalf of the enterprise" in order for an organization to be criminally liable. Under this bill, a person must only be "acting on behalf of the enterprise." Support is the Limited Government Position as human trafficking has enormous negative implications on national security and of course devastates victims of the practice and their families. Both Arizona and the U.S. government have duties to secure the border and restore law and order by holding criminals accountable. A recent investigation by the Heritage Foundation's oversight project uncovered an enormous operation being conducted by Catholic Charities to aid illegal immigrants and move migrants across the county.

Combatting Human Trafficking by Subjecting Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to Criminal Liability.

This bill expands the state's law protecting firearms manufactured and kept within the state from federal regulation to also include the modification of firearms. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure provides an additional layer of protection for individuals to exercise their Second Amendment rights without being unduly restricted by government.

Protecting Second Amendment Rights by Expanding Protections Against Federal Firearms Regulations.

This bill allows taxpayers with unused research and development tax credits to reinvest those credits in additional projects, such as "sustainability or water capital projects" or a workforce development project with a college or university. Reinvestment of credits is limited to $50 million annually, and the refundable portion of the research and development credit is increased from $5 to $10 million annually. The bill appropriates $50 million for reinvestment of the tax credits. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further worsens the state's crony R&D tax credit scheme, which benefits select industries and companies. Instead of central planning through tax credit schemes, lawmakers should eliminate all special interest tax credits and subsidies and apply the savings to lower tax rates for all companies. This will allow the free market to generate much greater returns on investment.

Growing Cronyism by Allowing Reinvestment of Unused Research and Development Tax Credits into "Sustainability" or Workforce Development Projects favored by Government.

This bill prohibits colleges and universities from enacting or enforcing any rule or policy prohibiting individuals with a concealed carry permit from carrying a concealed firearm on campus. The bill also prohibits rules and policies prohibiting the transportation or storage of firearms. Support is the Limited Government Position as "gun free zones" do not protect communities, rather they place individuals in defenseless positions against criminals who do not abide by the law.

Strengthening Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights by Allowing Lawful Gun Owners to Carry a Concealed Firearm on University Campuses.

The Miranda amendment to a bill making changes to the state's K-12 education system. The amendment adds language requiring the Department of Education to pause approval of applications for the Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account Program if the number of enrolled students exceeds 69,000. The Empowerment Scholarship Account is a school choice program that allows students to receive funding for educational expenses such as tuition at a private school, textbooks, and tutoring. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the scholarship program improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Restricting School Choice by Capping the Number of Students in the Empowerment Scholarship Account Program.

This bill designates the Secretary of State's July 2020 Signature Verification Guide as the minimum requirements for verifying voter signatures on early ballot affidavits. This guide, published when now-Governor Katie Hobbs was the Secretary of State, prescribes a procedure for election officials comparing signatures. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Establishing Minimum Requirements for Voter Signature Verification for Early Ballots.

This bill requires legislative approval for any agency rule that is estimated to increase regulatory costs by more than $500,000 within 5 years, or "have an adverse impact on economic growth" of more than $500,000 within 5 years. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure limits the power of unelected government employees who are not held accountable to voters by strengthening the oversight provided by the legislative branch of government.

Protecting Arizonans from Costly Regulations by Requiring Certain Agency Rules be Adopted by the Legislature.

This bill allows public and charter schools to suspend a student in kindergarten through 4th grade for up to two days (10 each school year). Previously, K-4 students could only be suspended if certain conditions were met, such as possession of a dangerous weapon or drugs on school property. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring safe and productive learning environments should be the highest priority of any school. This bill improves the educational quality of all students by strengthening the ability of school administrators to maintain school discipline and safety.

Strengthening School Safety and Productive Learning Environments by Removing Barriers that Prevented Schools from Suspending Students.

This bill extends the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity for an additional 4 years, until July 2027. The purpose of this office "is to expand economic opportunities for all Arizonans by leading the analysis and evaluation of the state's population and economy, investing in workers, families, and communities to power Arizona's economic growth." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as "investing in workers, families, and communities" is not a core nor necessary function of government. The free-market and private industry - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is many times more effective in growing the economy. The 2024 budget included over $17 million for the office. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Tens of Millions in Wasteful Spending by Extending the Unnecessary Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity for Another 4 Years.

This bill extends the Arizona Grain Research and Promotion Council for an additional eight years, until July 2031. The purpose of this council is "to assist the development of the grain industry in this state." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as promoting the grain industry is not a core nor necessary function of government. The free-market and private industry - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is many times more effective in growing the economy. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Extending Wasteful Spending and Government Central Planning by Continuing a Council to Promote Arizona's Grain Industry for Another Eight Years.

This bill prohibits public schools from making available materials "that are lewd or sexual in nature, that promote gender fluidity or gender pronouns or that groom children into normalizing pedophilia" and requires the Department of Education to make a list of such books available on its website. The bill also provides parents and guardians the right to review books available in school libraries and classrooms, to request their removal, and to submit them to the state for inclusion on the list of prohibited materials. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of parents - not government bureaucrats - to introduce and discuss these sensitive issues with their children. All school curriculum and learning materials should pertain only to core subject areas and accessible to parents for review.

Strengthening Parental Rights in Education by Ensuring only Age-Appropriate Materials are Displayed in Public School Libraries.

This bill allows food trucks to operate on private residential property in a residential area, with permission of the property owner, as long as certain conditions are met, such as removing trash, time restrictions, and not serving members of the general public. The bill also limits the amount that localities may charge mobile food vendors per location or vehicle and allows vendors to request an exemption from certain health and safety standards. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps protect against overreaching local regulations that most often restrict competition and drive-up business costs.

Combatting Government Overreach by Allowing Food Trucks to Operate on Residential Property and Reducing Regulations.

This bill authorizes the Arizona Department of Homeland Security to annually administer up to $1 million in grants to non-profit entities to be used for improving their physical security. Such purposes include paying security guards and improving physical barriers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of state and local law enforcement to protect their communities and fight crime and not the role of a state entity such as the Department of Homeland Security to manage such a program. Furthermore, if lawmakers are truly concerned about improving public safety, they should focus on combatting efforts to "defund the police" and address crime head-on rather than advance largely politized measures.

Expanding Bureaucracy and Spending within the Department of Homeland Security to Establish a Largely Politicized "Nonprofit Security Grant Program".

This bill directs the Industrial Commission of Arizona to create a fraud unit to investigate worker's compensation fraud. The unit may investigate based on complaints or on its own and may report the findings for prosecution. Support is the Limited Government Position as combatting fraud within the worker's compensation insurance system is critical to maintaining low premiums for businesses, which are forced to purchase coverage. Lawmakers have a duty to maintain the integrity of the system.

Strengthening the Integrity of the Workers' Compensation System by Establishing a Fraud Investigation Unit.

This memorial urges the U.S. Congress to pass H.R. 9174, the "State Immigration Enforcement Act," which would allow state and local governments to enforce immigration laws. Support is the Limited Government Position as the promotion of an open-border immigration system places an immense strain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources, ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious national security and human trafficking issues. Lawmakers should focus on growing the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that both increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country and reduce human trafficking across our borders.

Urging Congress to Pass the "State Immigration Enforcement Act" Allowing States to Enforce Immigration Laws.

This bill appropriates $239 million to the Department of Economic Security for various programs related to intellectual and developmental disabilities. Included in the bill is $180 million for service provider rate increases, $54 million for "home and community based services," and $5 million for the Arizona early intervention program. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows out-of-control spending. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending through $239 Million in Appropriations for Intellectual and Developmental Disability Programs and Provider Reimbursement Increases.

This bill increases work search requirements for recipients to remain eligible for unemployment insurance. Under existing law, recipients were required to make contact with one employer per day, each week, to be eligible for benefits. This bill requires at least five "work search actions" each week. In addition to submitting resumes and interviewing for jobs, this can include completing an approved training program, attending a job fair, or other activities designed to help a recipient gain employment. Recipients must also provide a weekly report detailing the actions taken. The bill also requires the Department of Economic Security to cross-check claims weekly against multiple data sources. Finally, employers are required to report previous employees for actions, such as refusing to return to work or failing to appear for a scheduled interview. Support is the Limited Government Position as combatting fraud within the state's unemployment insurance system is critical to maintaining low payroll taxes for businesses, which are forced to pay into the system. While unemployment insurance should not be carried out by government - rather, a system should be established whereby individuals and companies can purchase into a program on the private marketplace - lawmakers have a duty to maintain the integrity of the system.

Strengthening the Integrity of the Unemployment Insurance System and Reducing Fraud through Increased Work Search Requirements and Claim Review Requirements.

This bill restricts the ability of localities to regulate home-based businesses. Under the bill, localities may not require a license or permit as long as the business meets certain requirements, such as not generating noise or a "substantial" increase in traffic. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens both property rights and individual liberties. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Strengthening Property Rights by Prohibiting Localities from Banning Home-Based Businesses.

This bill prohibits public officers, which includes any "elected officer of a public agency", from engaging in lobbying. The only exception is when the officer is acting in their official capacity. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure aims to increase government integrity by combatting crony lobbying efforts, which erode public trust and typically seek even greater amounts of spending or government intervention.

Strengthening Government Integrity by Prohibiting a Public Officer from Lobbying.

This bill appropriates $500,000 annually to the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Office for the Agricultural Workforce Development Program, which provides funds "to provide incentives to food-producing agricultural organizations to hire apprentices by partially reimbursing apprenticeship costs." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives that do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. The legislature should instead spur economic growth (which results in the hiring of interns and apprentices) through bills which slash the corporate tax rate.

Expanding Cronyism and Corporate Welfare through $500,000 in Annual Spending to Incentivize Agricultural Organizations to Hire Apprentices.

This memorial urges the Biden Administration and Congress to stop the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from imposing additional ozone control measures on Arizona. This follows the EPA reclassifying Maricopa County as a "moderate nonattainment area," which mandates additional ozone control measures. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure seeks to protect Arizonans from overreaching and politicized new mandates being proposed by the Biden Administration. Such draconian regulations result in much higher consumer costs and choke economic growth.

Protecting Against Overreaching Federal Climate Change and Environmental Regulations.

This bill requires the Department of Health Services to develop a "dementia services program" and an "Alzheimer's disease state plan," with the department directed to recommend state actions to "increase access to care, support and treatment" and "advance risk reduction, early detection and diagnosis" as part of the Alzheimer's plan. The bill also appropriates $300,000 and provides for two new full-time positions for these programs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is far better equipped to effectively advance medical innovation, not government officials who are attempting to centrally plan research efforts without a plan to track financial accountability or measure if taxpayer funded resources are used effectively. Additionally, this will likely lead to new health insurance mandates and Medicaid expansion, which will drive up premiums and taxpayer costs.

Growing Government Bureaucracy and Paving the Way for New Insurance Coverage Mandates and Medicaid Expansion through New Dementia Programs.

This bill requires voters who drop off an early voting ballot in person to provide a form of identification, and requires the voting center to follow the identification requirements. If dropping off a ballot for another voter, the person must attest that they are the voter's family member, household member, or caregiver. Violations are a Class 5 felony. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Requiring Voter Identification for In-Person Early Voting Ballot Delivery.

This bill prohibits setting up a tent, tarp, or similar structure on a public street, highway, sidewalk, or other right-of-way. This bill is in response to the increase in homeless encampments on public property in areas such as Phoenix, where around 1,000 homeless people camped in an area known as "The Zone," which stretched 15 blocks. Support is the Limited Government Position as homeless encampments on sidewalks and streets present many health and safety concerns, including increased crime rates, open drug use, and sanitary concerns.

Strengthening Public Safety by Prohibiting Homeless Encampments on Public Sidewalks and Streets.

This bill appropriates $25 million to the Department of Economic Security for "coordinated homeless services." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as yet another measure that traps individuals into poverty by disincentivizing advancement and growing government dependency. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Increasing Government Dependency through $25 Million for "Coordinated Homeless Services".

This bill eliminates the requirement that regulated health professional groups seeking to expand their scope of practice submit a written report to the legislature. The report must contain information such as "why an increased scope of practice is beneficial" and any recommendations from regulatory bodies, the Department of Health Services, and accredited education and training programs. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill eliminates a barrier that serves as a hinderance to expanding access to healthcare and competition, which results lowers costs.

Expanding Access to Healthcare and Lowering Costs by Eliminating a Barrier to Healthcare Scope of Practice Expansions.

This bill requires pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to obtain a certificate of authority and pay a fee in order to operate in the state. The certificate must be renewed every two years and includes a number of requirements surrounding disclosures, compliance with other regulations and document retention. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure represents even greater government overreach and will likely serve as a platform for additional regulations.  The nation has already witnessed first-hand the disastrous consequences and cost of growing government regulatory power in healthcare (i.e. Obamacare).

Imposing an Overreaching New Licensing Regime on Pharmacy Benefit Managers, Including New Disclosure and Document Retention Mandates.

This bill extends the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (DLLC) for an additional eight years, until July 2031. Arizona utilizes a quota system based on population growth to limit the number of liquor licenses issued. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill continues the state's draconian liquor license system, with the 2024 budget forcing taxpayers to expend over $7.7 million for the department and scheme. This system fuels cronyism, with the free market the best mechanism to control and direct liquor sales.

Extending the State's Draconian Liquor License Regime for Another 8 Years.

This bill prohibits the state and local governments from requiring companies to implement an ESG (environmental, social, and governance) policy as a requirement to receive a public contract. Public entities also may not adopt a procurement or investment strategy that effectively induces or requires companies to implement an ESG policy. The consideration of ESG oftentimes leads to higher taxpayer costs and investment strategies bason on ESG result in reduced financial returns for taxpayers. Support is the Limited Government Position as all public procurement and investment actions should be based on producing the maximum return and value for taxpayers, not advancing political or social agendas.

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Considerations in State and Local Contracts and Investment Strategies.

This bill makes a supplemental appropriation of over $3.3 billion to Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) from the Children's Health Insurance Program Fund and expenditure authority. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government dependency under the state's Medicaid welfare program. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Ballooning Medicaid Welfare Spending by an Additional $3.3 Billion.

This motion overrides the Governor's veto of a bill which expands the ability of individuals to sell homemade food products, including some cottage food products that may be "potentially hazardous or require time or temperature control for safety." Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens individual liberties and the ability of consumer to purchase a greater range of products at farmer's markets and other locations across the state.

Expanding Food Freedom and Consumer Choice by Reducing Restrictions on Sales of Certain Homemade Food Products.

This bill prohibits any person from paying or receiving money or anything of value "based on the number of voter registrations or voter registration forms collected, completed or submitted." Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Prohibiting Payments Based on the Number of Voter Registration Forms Collected.

This bill prohibits the state and local governments from imposing any taxes or fees on firearms, ammunition, and accessories that are not also imposed on all other products or services "and that might reasonably be expected to create a chilling effect on the purchase or ownership of those items by law-abiding citizens." Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure provides an additional layer of protection for individuals to exercise their Second Amendment rights without being unduly restricted by government.

Protecting Second Amendment Rights by Prohibiting Taxes and Fees Specific to Firearms and Ammunition.

This bill allows parents and guardians who have a concealed carry permit to carry a firearm on the property of the school where their child is enrolled. The bill also prohibits any policy or rule that prohibits this. Support is the Limited Government Position as "gun free zones" do not protect communities, rather they place individuals in defenseless positions against criminals who do not abide by the law. While the restriction should be eliminated entirely, this measure serves as a step in the right direction.

Strengthening Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights by Allowing Parents and Guardians of Students to Concealed Carry on School Campuses.

This bill places restrictions on the instruction of divisive topics in public school classrooms, such as Critical Race Theory (CRT). For example, the bill prohibits instruction or usage of materials which convey that one ethnicity is inherently superior to another, or that a person is responsible for past actions of others due to their race. Support is the Limited Government Position as the public education system should be solely utilized to promote excellence in core subject fields such as reading, mathematics, and the sciences, as well as to prepare children for their careers. Schools should be held accountable to parents, and measures such as this bill are crucial to ensure classrooms are not weaponized to advance any political or social agendas onto children.

Strengthening the Integrity of the Public Education System by Prohibiting Instruction on Divisive Concepts Such as Critical Race Theory (CRT).

This bill increases the state's "Handyman Exemption", which provides that a licensed contractor is not required for projects where the cost of labor and materials is less than $1,000. This bill increases the amount to $2,000, increased annually for inflation. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a step in the right direction to reducing unnecessary licensing requirements. Ultimately, the private sector, via certifications, rating systems, and the free market, is much better equipped to provide consumer protection while also ensuring competition and low consumer costs.

Reducing Consumer Costs by Increasing the Value of Projects Not Requiring a Contractor Under the "Handyman Exemption".

This bill accelerates the gradual reduction of the state's small business tax rate from 3% to 2.5% beginning in 2023. Previously, the tax rate would not have reached 2.5% until 2025. Support is the Limited Government Position as these tax cuts will encourage new businesses in Arizona and unleash economic growth by keeping a greater amount of resources in the private sector where they can be reinvested. Instead of enacting countless out-of-control and wasteful spending initiatives the legislature should work to make even greater cuts in the small business tax rate.

Expanding Economic Growth by Accelerating the Reduction of the Small Business Tax Rate.

This bill allows physician assistants with at least 8,000 hours of clinical practice to provide medical services without a supervision agreement with a physician, though they must continue to collaborate with a physician. Physician assistants with less than 8,000 hours of clinical practice must still have a supervision agreement with a physician. Support is the Limited Government Position as this regulatory relief results in greater access to healthcare and competition which ultimately drives down costs for patients.

Expanding Access to Healthcare and Reducing Costs by Allowing Physician Assistants to Practice Without a Supervision Agreement.

This bill prohibits the state and local governments from deploying cameras to enforce certain traffic offenses, such as speeding and traffic light violations. Support is the Limited Government Position as these systems have been abused by countless local governments across the nation to produce revenue, many of which place such devices not at spots closest to schools but at locations most likely to catch speeders. Additionally, the significant increases in automated traffic systems brings up valid concerns regarding civil liberties and the growth of government tracking and surveillance.

Protecting Against the Surveillance State and "Taxation through Citation" by Prohibiting Camera Enforcement of Certain Traffic Violations.

This bill creates a special 30-day nonresident vehicle registration permit, allowing individuals who live outside Arizona to purchase a vehicle in-person and drive it home, without having to pay a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) on the sale. This is similar to the existing 90-day nonresident registration, which exempts non-residents who purchase a vehicle and have it delivered out-of-state from paying TPT. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure protects vehicle purchasers from being forced to incur additional burdens and costs in order to pick up their vehicle in-person and drive it home, as opposed to having it delivered.

Allowing Out-of-State Residents to Purchase a Vehicle and Drive it Home Without Being Subjected to the Transaction Privilege Tax.

This bill appropriates $3 million to the Arizona Commerce Authority for "a grant program charged with cultivating STEM learning and STEM workforce development opportunities." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives which do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful and Out-Of-Control Spending through a $3 Million Appropriation for STEM Workforce Grants.

This bill requires any nongovernmental person or group that mails an official election document, such as a voter registration application or early ballot request, or a document resembling an official election document, to include "NOT FROM A GOVERNMENT AGENCY" in bold on the outside of the envelope. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps reduce deception by political campaigns. Measures such as this are critical to ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Reducing Deception by Political Campaigns by Prohibiting Non-Government Entities from Sending Election Related Mail Without Disclosure.

This bill contains several provisions related to election integrity. Most notably, the bill requires voters who deposit an early ballot at a polling location after 7 p.m. on the Friday before an election to provide a form of identification and sign the roster or pollbook. If a voter does not provide sufficient identification or has another person deliver their ballot, they must provide identification to election officials within 5 days for federal elections or 3 days for other elections. The bill also requires separate, secured deposit boxes at polling locations for early ballots, based on whether identification was provided by the voter. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity Through Additional Measures Designed to Prevent Voter Fraud.

This bill expands eligibility for School Tuition Organization (STO) scholarships and grants to include children in the foster care system whose family income does not exceed 185% of the federal reduced lunch income threshold. Support is the Limited Government Position as the expansion of school choice (in a fiscally responsible manner) helps improve educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Providing School Choice for Students Placed in Foster Care Through STO Scholarships and Grants.

This bill requires school districts to adopt policies and procedures allowing parents to file a complaint if they believe any parental or student rights have been violated by the school or school district. Schools must notify parents annually that they may file a complaint and inform them of the process, and complaints must be investigated by a school administrator. Support is the Limited Government Position as strong parental rights in their child's education is a critical element of a free society. This measure ensures children are not subjected to sensitive topics without the consent of parents.

Strengthening Parental Rights in Education by Enforcing the Parents' Bill of Rights.

This bill prohibits the consideration of ESG (environmental, social, and governance) in state investment strategies, including for the state pension system. Investment strategies based on ESG result in reduced financial returns for taxpayers. Support is the Limited Government Position as all public investment actions should be based on producing the maximum return and value for taxpayers, not advancing political or social agendas.

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Considerations in State Investment Strategies.

This bill prohibits requiring students to receive any immunization for which the FDA has issued an emergency use authorization in order to attend school. Support is the Limited Government Position as strong parental rights are a critical element of a free society. It is the role of parents - not government bureaucrats - to evaluate the risks and benefits of providing their child a vaccination.

Strengthening Parental Rights by Prohibiting Requiring Emergency Use Authorization Immunizations to Attend School.

This bill appropriates $50 million to the Arizona Health Innovation Trust Fund, which provides funds to non-profits organizations to promote health innovation and health care delivery. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives which do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending through a $50 Million Appropriation to the Health Innovation Trust Fund.

This bill expands coverage under Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) to now include cochlear implants for eligible individuals 21 or older. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further traps individuals into government dependency by growing benefits under the government welfare state. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing Government Dependency by Expanding the Medicaid Welfare Program to Now Cover Cochlear Implants.

This resolution amends the state Constitution to require signatures from at least 15% of the electorate in every legislative district for a citizen-led initiative. Current law only requires signatures to be collected from 15% of the electorate statewide. This requirement also applies to initiatives for a statewide measure (10%) and statewide referendums (5%). Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps protect the constitutional amendment process from abuse by special interests and other groups that seek to grow the size and scope of government. In recent years the initiative process has been utilized to expand Medicaid (government-provided healthcare).

Protecting the State's Referendum and Initiative Process from Abuse by Raising the Citizen-led Signature Threshold.

This bill reduces the period of inactivity required for a person to be removed from the active early voting list, which is a list of voters who are automatically mailed a ballot for each election they are eligible to vote in. Under the bill, voters are removed from the list if they do not vote an early ballot in any election during an election cycle (previously two cycles). Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Reducing the Time Period Required to Remove Inactive Voters from the Automatic Early Voting List.

This bill prohibits local governments from requiring hotels and motels to house homeless individuals through a housing voucher program. Support is the Limited Government Position as these programs not only infringe on property rights, but serve as yet another way in which individuals are trapped into government dependency. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Protecting Against Local Government Overreach by Prohibiting Localities from Forcing Hotels to House Homeless Individuals.

This bill prohibits state and local governments and agencies, including school districts, from exposing minors to sexually explicit material. Support is the Limited Government Position as children should not be exposed to obscene material at school, especially without the knowledge of their parents.

Protecting K-12 Students from Pornographic Content by Prohibiting Public Schools from Exposing Minors to Sexually Explicit Material.

This bill exempts utilities from the requirement that an application for a certificate of environmental compatibility be submitted and approved prior to constructing an electrical transmission line on property that is owned by an owner of the transmission line. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps lower costs to extend electrical transmission lines by eliminating unnecessary government barriers.

Reducing Regulatory Burdens and Costs to Extend Electrical Transmission Lines on Private Property through an Exemption to Environmental Certificate Requirements.

This bill prohibits state and local governments, agencies, and public universities from requiring any employee to participate in a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program. Additionally, no public funds may be spent on DEI programs, and public entities may not "advance or adopt any policy or procedure designed or implemented on the basis of race, sex or color," including "to influence the composition of its workforce." Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a step in the right direction to protecting taxpayers. Furthermore, all government positions should be staffed with the most qualified applicants for the given role, not filled based on politicized Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Protecting Taxpayer Funds from Being Utilized for Politicized "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" (DEI) Programs.

This bill, the "Preventing International Influence on Public Health Emergencies Act of 2023", prohibits the state and local government from using any resources to enforce a public health emergency order that is based on "an agreement or recommendations from an international governmental organization", such as the World Health Organization. The bill also limits public health emergencies declared by the Governor to seven days, unless approved by 2/3 of each house of the legislature, and prohibits the Governor from ordering lockdowns or business closures as part of a public health emergency. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens individual liberties and protects against government overreach, as countless governments abused their authorities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Strengthening Individual Liberties by Placing Limits on "Public Health Emergencies".

This bill prohibits localities from imposing any ordinance that bans gun shows or that "primarily affects" and "effectively prohibits" gun shows. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure provides an additional layer of protection for individuals to exercise their Second Amendment rights without being unduly restricted by government. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Protecting Second Amendment Rights by Preventing Localities from Banning Gun Shows.

This bill makes changes to Arizona's two income tax credits related to contributions to School Tuition Organizations (which fund school choice scholarships and grants). Ultimately, the changes result in an estimated $271 million being provided for school choice. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Improving Educational Outcomes by Channeling an Additional $271 Million to School Choice by Increasing Caps on Income Tax Deductions.

This bill allows private school students to be provided the same access as children enrolled in public schools to interscholastic activities, if the private school does not offer the activity. The bill only applies to students at private schools with less than 100 students in grades 9 through 12. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens school choice by removing a barrier that may have dissuaded families from enrolling their children in private school.

Reducing a Barrier to School Choice by Ensuring Private School Students Have Equal Access to Extracurricular Activities.

This bill provides automatic income tax rate reductions for all taxpayers when state revenues exceed spending. Under the bill, if the state has a revenue surplus after accounting for inflation and population growth, 50% of the surplus is automatically returned to taxpayers in the form of income tax rate reductions. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill represents a step in the right direction to returning resources to the private sector.

Providing Tax Relief through Automatic Income Tax Cuts When the State Runs a Surplus.

This bill provides that if localities require a license or permit for any free speech or assembly activity the locality must "specify in clear and unambiguous language the criteria for granting the license or permit." Additionally, unless an ordinance or law provides a different timeframe, an application must also be approved or denied within 60 days or it is deemed approved. Support is the Limited Government Position as the bill helps strengthen free speech and assembly rights as protected under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Protecting Free Speech and Assembly through Oversight of First Amendment Permitting Processes of Localities.

This bill prohibits local governments across the state from imposing a tax or fee for running a blockchain node in a residence. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill protects economic growth by ensuring regulatory certainty and combatting local government overreach. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Protecting Against Local Government Overreach by Prohibiting Localities from Imposing Taxes or Fees for Running a Blockchain Node in a Residence.

This bill makes several changes to local zoning requirements. Under the bill, municipalities are prohibited from imposing any ordinances that regulate "residential housing design elements," such as floor plans, exterior colors, and exterior and roofing materials. Additionally, municipalities with a population of over 30,000 are required to allow accessory dwelling units in single-family residential use zones. Finally, the bill allows grading and earthmoving activities while a plan is awaiting final approval and requires municipalities to publish a "housing needs assessment" every five years. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps combat overreaching land use and zoning laws, which infringe on the property rights of landowners and have resulted in high housing costs due to the failures of government central planning. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe on the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Strengthening Property Rights and Combatting Overreaching Local Zoning Regulations.

This resolution amends the state Constitution to require approval from 60% of votes cast to adopt a citizen-led constitutional amendment. Currently, only a majority of votes cast is required. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps protect the constitutional amendment process from abuse by special interests and other groups that seek to grow the size and scope of government. In recent years the initiative process has been utilized to expand Medicaid (government-provided healthcare).

Protecting the State's Initiative Process from Abuse by Raising the Threshold to Adopt Citizen-led Constitutional Amendments.

This bill prohibits localities from imposing any taxes on rentals or leases of real property for residential purposes. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides broad tax relief to renters. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone.

Providing Tax Relief to Renters by Prohibiting Local Taxes on Renting or Leasing Residential Property.

This bill extends the Arizona Outdoor Recreation Coordinating Commission for an additional eight years, until July 2031. The purpose of this commission is "to provide for the distribution of federal and state monies for recreation projects in this state and to assist and advise the Arizona state parks board." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the government should largely not be engaged in "recreation projects" in the first place, with this commission also representing an unnecessary cost for taxpayers. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful Spending by Extending the Unnecessary Arizona Outdoor Recreation Coordinating Commission for Another Eight Years.

This bill expands upon the existing requirement that before a municipality adopts a zoning ordinance or amendment, it consider the "probable impact" on housing construction costs. Under this bill, the municipality must consider a "housing impact statement" that includes "a general estimate of the probable impact" on housing construction costs, "a description of any data or reference material" the ordinance or amendment is based on, and "a description of any less costly or less restrictive alternative methods of achieving the purpose" of the ordinance or amendment. Support is the Limited Government Position as, like all government central planning attempts, many of the zoning and land use ordinances enacted across the state are overreaching and oftentimes designed to benefit select developers and landowners. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe on the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Combatting Government Overreach by Requiring Localities to Consider a Housing Impact Statement Before Adopting Zoning Ordinances or Amendments.

This bill requires all health insurance policies offered in the state to provide additional coverages concerning screening mammography (to detect breast cancer) and cytologic screening (to detect cervical cancer). Specifically, the bill eliminates certain coverage limits and requires supplemental screenings including digital breast tomosynthesis. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents individuals from selecting plans with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. This can result in lower-income or younger individuals choosing to purchase no insurance plan at all due to the high cost.

Increasing Health Insurance Premiums by Mandating All Policies Provide Additional Mammography Coverages.

This bill expands coverage under Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) to now include speech therapy for eligible individuals 21 or older. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further traps individuals into government dependency by growing benefits under the government welfare state. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing Government Dependency by Expanding the Medicaid Welfare Program to Now Cover Speech Therapy.

This bill appropriates $250,000 to the Arizona Trail Fund to maintain and preserve the Arizona Trail. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives which do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful and Out-Of-Control Spending through a $250,000 Appropriation for the Arizona Trail Fund.

This bill makes it a class 2 felony to use a telephone or computer application or program to "knowingly assist in the smuggling of human beings," which includes transportation or use of property intended to conceal a person or help a person flee law enforcement. Support is the Limited Government Position as the promotion of an open-border immigration system places an immense strain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources, ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious national security and human trafficking issues. Lawmakers should focus on growing the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system, reforms that both increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country and reduce human trafficking across our borders.

Strengthening National Security by Banning the Use of Cell Phone Applications to Assist Human Smuggling.

This bill appropriates $155 million for various homelessness programs, as well as rental assistance and eviction prevention for people 65 and older. Among the numerous provisions is $145 million for grants to localities and non-profits for programs providing shelter and services for homeless people, and $50 million for the "affordable housing opportunities pilot program," which includes programs such as providing affordable housing, leasing vacant commercial and hotel buildings to homeless people, and providing property owners with "resources to offer affordable housing to individuals experiencing homelessness," and a program for homeless people to "secure stable housing and job placement." Finally, the bill includes $10 million for "rental assistance and eviction prevention" for people 65 and older. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as yet another measure that traps individuals into poverty by disincentivizing advancement and growing government dependency. Additionally, the bill's $155 million in subsidies will merely bid up the market prices of existing rental units, thus worsening the state's housing affordability crisis and likely leading to additional homelessness and government dependency. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Increasing Government Dependency and Out-of-Control Spending through a New $155 Million Program Providing Rental Assistance and Eviction Prevention.

This bill requires a chain of custody record for every ballot, beginning at the printing location and continuing until the voted ballots are delivered for counting. The bill also requires ballot boxes contain a tamper evident seal and requires publicly accessible live video recording of the signature and affidavit verification process (previously only in tabulation rooms). Additionally, ballots must be fully visible on the video recordings. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Expanding Ballot Chain of Custody Requirements and Improving Public Observation of the Counting Process.

This bill eliminates the requirement that the Board of Massage Therapy "establish communication proficiency requirements related to an applicant's ability to protect health and safety." Previously, the Board required non-native English speakers to submit scores from an English competency exam as a requirement for licensure. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a step in the right direction to reducing unnecessary employment barriers. Ultimately, the private sector, via certifications, rating systems, and the free market, is much better equipped to provide consumer protection while also ensuring competition and low consumer costs. Most government licensing entities are overly restrictive and are largely advocated by special interests seeking to restrict competition in the marketplace.

Reducing Employment Barriers by Eliminating the "Communication Proficiency" Requirement for Massage Therapists.

This bill expands the scope of practice of psychologists. Under the bill, psychologists who meet certain requirements are permitted to prescribe medications approved by the FDA to treat mental disorders under the supervision of a physician. Psychologists must hold a doctoral degree, complete pharmacological training, and meet other requirements. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill increases healthcare access and lowers costs by providing additional options for individuals seeking treatment.

Expanding Access to Mental Healthcare and Lowering Costs by Providing Psychologists the Ability to Prescribe Certain Medications.

This bill prohibits the state of Arizona from establishing any regulation that forces a bank or financial institutions to use a "social credit score" when evaluating whether to lend to a customer. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill prevents government intrusion in the marketplace by infringing on the right of private financial institutions to set their own policies and lending decisions.

ILA

Denise Epstein