administrative decisions; security proceedings; hearings

HB 2049 modifies Arizona's court procedures for reviewing government agency decisions. It requires courts to hold evidentiary hearings within 30 days of a party's request, allows new evidence not presented at the original agency hearing (unless withheld for improper reasons), and eliminates judicial deference to agency interpretations on both law and fact. The bill specifically applies to appeals involving professional licensing (e.g., medical, legal boards) and ensures courts directly review agency actions without relying on prior agency determinations. This change affects individuals and businesses appealing agency decisions, as well as courts handling these cases.