Rep. Michael Way

Maddy summaryHB 2115 makes it illegal to observe a nude minor solely for the purpose of sexual gratification, classifying this as a class 2 felony. The law directly affects individuals who engage in this conduct, applying to all minors regardless of age. This amendment to Arizona law (Section 13-3553) specifically adds "observing a nude minor for sexual gratification" as a new prohibited act under sexual exploitation of a minor charges.

Maddy summaryArizona's HB 2663 requires school principals or designated administrators to provide teachers with written certification before allowing a temporarily removed student to return to class. This certification must state the authorization for readmission and describe any disciplinary action taken for the behavior that led to the removal. The bill applies to all public school classrooms where regular instruction occurs and clarifies that "rules governing student conduct" include district policies, school procedures, and teacher-developed classroom management plans. The law aims to ensure transparency in classroom management decisions and is currently awaiting the governor's action after passing both legislative chambers.

Maddy summaryHB 2736 establishes a five-year pilot program requiring Arizona state agencies to implement and upgrade data encryption systems meeting strict security criteria. It directly affects the Secretary of State, Department of Revenue, Department of Administration, and the Legislature, each implementing the system in sequential fiscal years starting in 2026. The bill mandates that encryption systems must be U.S.-owned, quantum-proof, use U.S. patents, allow key resets without third-party access, and include detailed audit trails. The Department of Administration must report annually on progress and security, with a final evaluation due in 2031, and the program expires June 30, 2032.

Maddy summaryHB 2725 requires Arizona public schools to display U.S. flags (made in the U.S.) and provide Constitution/Bill of Rights copies (also U.S.-made) in classrooms for grades 7-12, and to set aside time daily for students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Schools must notify parents if a student skips the Pledge during this designated time. The bill also mandates a 1-2 minute daily moment of silence at the start of each school day for all grades (K-12), with teachers encouraged to discuss its use with parents but not suggesting specific reflections. Private schools, parochial schools, and homeschools are exempt from these requirements.

Maddy summaryHCR 2042 proposes amending Arizona's constitution to prohibit state governments from granting preferential treatment or discrimination based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in public employment, education, or contracting. It specifically bans requiring individuals to endorse race-based policies, discuss personal race/ethnicity, or participate in training promoting "diversity, equity and inclusion" beyond equal protection under federal law. The amendment would restrict public funding for offices promoting race-based policies and prohibit differential treatment in hiring, admissions, or contracting decisions. If approved by voters, it would take effect on December 14, 2010, applying only to state actions after that date.

Maddy summaryHB 2601 exempts minors under 18 years old from Arizona income tax on their first $50,000 of Arizona gross income for any tax year. This directly affects young workers earning up to $50,000 annually in Arizona, regardless of income source (e.g., wages, self-employment). The bill adds this exemption to existing tax code sections (43-403 and 43-1043), requiring the tax department to verify eligibility. The policy change applies to tax years beginning after December 31, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 2223 creates "renewable energy incentive districts" in unincorporated Arizona counties to streamline wind farm development. Counties must designate these districts based on specific criteria (e.g., land suitability, compatibility with existing uses, and alignment with county plans) before approving projects. The bill requires counties to expedite permitting for wind farms within these districts while mandating strict public notice procedures (30-day newspaper ads, physical postings, certified mail to neighbors) and imposing a 90-day timeline for permit decisions. Wind farm developers must also provide a financial bond to cover property damage, environmental cleanup, and liability claims arising from their operations. This bill directly affects county governments, landowners, and renewable energy developers by altering zoning, permitting, and financial accountability processes.

Maddy summaryHB 2680 proposed increasing sentencing for felony offenses committed against vulnerable adults or incapacitated persons in Arizona. If passed, it would have removed eligibility for probation, suspended sentences, or early release (except under specific exceptions) for offenders convicted of such crimes. The bill would have added 3 years to sentences for class 4-6 felonies or 5 years for class 2-3 felonies, with the additional time served in addition to any existing enhancements. This bill directly affected offenders convicted of targeting individuals defined as vulnerable adults (per ARS 13-3623) or incapacitated persons (per ARS 14-5101). The bill passed the House but failed in the Senate on March 12, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits Arizona government entities and election vendors from using money or services from foreign governments or non-citizens for election administration. It also bans foreign entities from funding efforts to influence ballot measure outcomes. Vendors must provide annual written statements confirming they don’t receive foreign funds, with penalties for false statements (up to three times the contract value). The law explicitly excludes federally recognized tribal nations from the definition of "foreign government."

Maddy summaryHB 2635 amends Arizona's tax code to add new sales tax exemptions for specific items. It exempts sales of "cash equivalents" (like gift cards, stored-value cards, and prepaid digital payment tools) and "precious metal bullion" (refined gold, silver, etc.) from retail sales tax. The bill defines "cash equivalents" as pre-paid items denominated in money redeemable for goods/services, excluding telecom prepaids, and clarifies that "monetized bullion" (coins used as currency) is exempt. This directly affects retailers selling these items, removing tax liability on such transactions. The bill focuses solely on tax policy, with no provisions related to firearm storage devices as inaccurately suggested in the title.