STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX
– House Democratic Leader Eric Meyer, D-Paradise Valley (District 28),
released this statement after the end of the legislative session:
“The legislative session
started with potential. Democratic members, who represent constituents in
districts across the state, worked on legislation to create jobs, to protect
education funding and to stop dark money. Instead of focusing on these
priorities, the majority party passed a budget with massive funding cuts to K-12
education, universities and community colleges, while spending millions on
private prison cells. Republicans also refused to consider dark money reforms
and put our communities at risk by slashing funding to social safety net
programs and to cities and counties.
“Their agenda included bills
that would make it a felony to help collect early ballots, make it a crime if
doctors don’t give some women scientifically unsupported pseudo-medical advice,
prohibit service animals from being allowed in restaurants and prohibit teachers
and school officials from sharing any information about legislation affecting
education. House Democrats stopped some of the worst bills from passing, but the
Republicans have put the state’s future in jeopardy.
“In the frenzy to end the
session early, the Republicans pushed legislation through the process sometimes
late at night and often with little public discussion. This tactic is shameful.
Our children deserve better, and we had other choices. The Republican budget and
legislative agenda together provide a statement of values. This session,
Republicans have shown they value special interests over the long-term economic
stability of our state and the future of our children. House Democrats remain
dedicated to promoting the priorities of Arizonans including quality
neighborhood schools, affordable higher education and the creation of
sustainable, high-wage jobs.”
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