Sen. T.J. Shope

Maddy summarySCR 1040 is a non-binding resolution celebrating the 50th anniversary of Arizona's State Government Affairs Council (SGAC). It formally recognizes SGAC's work over five decades in fostering relationships between government, businesses, and communities, promoting transparency, and advancing policy through nonpartisan collaboration. The resolution commends SGAC for its role in enhancing communication between public and private sectors and encourages continued support for its mission. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or directly affect any individuals or entities.

Maddy summarySB 1555 establishes the Arizona Psilocybin Advisory Board to oversee future regulation of psilocybin services. The board, composed of 12 members appointed by the governor, senate president, and house speaker, includes health professionals, law enforcement, mental health advocates, and researchers. It must publish annual reports starting July 2026, summarizing scientific research on psilocybin's safety and efficacy for mental health conditions, and tracking other states' policies. This procedural bill creates the framework for future regulation but does not legalize or regulate psilocybin services itself.

Maddy summaryHB 2704 redirects 82% of certain tax revenues to county stadium districts starting in 2026. Specifically, it directs the state treasurer to transfer these funds annually from tax revenues reported under Section 43-209, subsection D to the county stadium district fund established under Section 48-4231. This allocation applies to tax revenues collected under Title 42, Chapter 5 (transaction privilege tax) and runs from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2056. The bill directly affects county stadium districts by creating a dedicated, long-term funding source for stadium-related projects and operations.

Maddy summaryHB 2150 authorizes the placement of a memorial honoring Don Bolles in Wesley Bolin Plaza, following standard legislative procedures. The bill explicitly states that public funds cannot cover memorial costs - private fundraising and contracts for design/construction must be handled solely by supporters, with no state involvement in fundraising or funds. This authorization expires on September 30, 2028, after which the provisions no longer apply.

Maddy summarySB 1621 increases penalties for certain drug offenses in Arizona, specifically targeting fentanyl sales and drug-related deaths. It mandates minimum prison sentences of 5 years (up to 15) for selling fentanyl in amounts of 200 grams or more, and 15 years (up to 25) if the sale contributes to another person's death. The bill also prohibits probation or suspended sentences for these offenses until the full term is served, and requires a minimum $2,000 fine or three times the drug's value. It directly affects individuals convicted of selling narcotics under these specific circumstances, particularly fentanyl distributors and those whose actions cause fatalities.

Maddy summaryArizona's SB 1109 prohibits foreign principals (including governments, businesses, or individuals from countries identified by U.S. intelligence as posing national security risks) from owning or acquiring most real property in Arizona. Exceptions allow small residential parcels (≤2 acres) for natural persons with valid U.S. visas, provided the property is not near military sites or critical infrastructure. The Attorney General enforces the law, and courts can order the sale of illegally held property, with proceeds distributed to lienholders, the state, and the original owner. The bill directly affects foreign entities from designated countries but exempts existing owners and specific residential purchases meeting strict conditions.

Maddy summaryHB 2679 establishes a new framework for Arizona public power entities (like municipal utilities) to finance infrastructure upgrades by issuing "Transition Bonds." These bonds are secured by future customer payments called "Financing Charges," which become nonbypassable fees added to all customers' utility bills until the costs are fully recovered. The bill creates specific definitions for terms like "Financing Charges," "Qualified Special Purpose Entity," and "Transition Bonds," ensuring these payments cannot be avoided regardless of the customer's service provider or asset ownership. This mechanism allows public power entities to shift financing costs to customers over time rather than relying solely on traditional rate increases.

Maddy summarySB 1074 amends Arizona's railroad crossing safety laws to clarify when drivers must stop and how they should proceed. It requires all drivers to stop within 15-50 feet of tracks when signals, gates, or approaching trains are present, and specifies conditions under which drivers may cautiously cross after stopping (e.g., clear sightlines with no approaching trains). The bill adds specific rules for school buses, commercial vehicles (requiring safe gear selection and space clearance), and heavy equipment (mandating advance notice to railroads and visual checks before crossing). These changes directly affect drivers of all vehicles, commercial operators, school bus drivers, and those moving heavy machinery near railroad crossings.

Maddy summarySB 1075 establishes Arizona's participation in the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Compact, allowing licensed professionals from participating states to practice across state lines without obtaining separate Arizona licenses. It directly affects audiologists and speech-language pathologists seeking to provide services in multiple states, including military spouses relocating with active-duty service members. The compact enables mutual recognition of licenses while preserving each state's authority to regulate practice and protect public safety. Key provisions require states to share licensure and disciplinary information and hold out-of-state providers accountable to the state where services are delivered. The bill was signed into law on May 13, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 1600, titled "Patient Rights; Health Care Services," defines core patient rights for anyone receiving healthcare in Arizona. It establishes that patients have the right to care prioritizing their best interest, avoiding harm, and requiring informed consent for medical decisions (except emergencies). The bill directly affects all patients receiving care from licensed health professionals in Arizona. However, the bill was passed by the legislature on May 7, 2025, but was vetoed by the governor on May 13, 2025, so it did not become law.