Senate Democratic Leader Reflects on Bipartisan Budget Package, 57th Legislature 1st Regular Session

PHOENIX – The Arizona State Senate has officially passed a bipartisan budget and adjourned sine die for the 57th Legislature 1st Regular Session. Arizona State Senate Democratic Leader Priya Sundareshan released the following statement:  

“Tonight, I am proud that my chamber brought forward a proposal that was earnestly negotiated between all parties and found its way across the finish line. I can confidently applaud the work of each of my caucus members this session and the vote they took to provide the state with a budget.

At the negotiating table, Senate Democrats were able to claw back unnecessary additional funding used to backfill the federal government’s responsibilities and its current overreach as it relates to immigration. We successfully secured the $200 Million needed for the K-12 supplemental, one-time funding for the Opportunity Weight and District Additional Assistance, and a lift of the Aggregate Expenditure Limit for the next fiscal year, allowing our public schools to spend the money appropriated to them by the legislature. From the beginning, we have prioritized state investments for childcare and services for those most in need and, although they are small wins, we are proud of the inroads we made to provide relief to those struggling.  

However, this budget, like those of many previous legislatures, fails to meet the moment in many ways. Each legislator comes down to the Capitol with a responsibility first and foremost to the people that elected them and reside in their districts. But as the times change and new problems arise, our decision-making must adapt, yet sadly, Republican lawmakers consistently fail to work with us to create a state where all people can thrive.  

It will never be enough to claim that simply passing a budget is a win for this state. My standing question on behalf of all Arizonans remains: Why does the Republican majority insist upon supporting the universal voucher scam, and on turning a blind eye to the irreparable damage of the flat tax rate? Especially when there is the need and the opportunity to support tangible and effective programs which instead end up being underfunded or slashed entirely.

Each year that we find ourselves being forced to cut back services for the working class and our most vulnerable, our voters can be confident in knowing that Republicans have not left the rich out to dry. Senate Democrats have shown we are fighting for you, and we remain committed to prioritizing what matters most to Arizonans in every corner of this state.”