On Monday, the Arizona House of Representatives passed House Concurrent Resolution 2005, sponsored by State Representative Justin Wilmeth, by a bipartisan vote of 42 to 14. The measure proposes a constitutional requirement for the Legislature to adjourn its regular session no later than April 30 each year. The resolution now advances to the Arizona Senate. According to the Arizona House GOP, if approved by the Senate, HCR 2005 would be placed on the next general election ballot for voter consideration.
The proposed deadline aims to address recent years in which regular sessions have extended beyond the traditional 100-day timeframe, delaying final budget action and prolonging uncertainty for taxpayers, schools, and state agencies. The measure would also preserve the Governor’s authority to call special sessions and limit those sessions to specified subjects.
“A part-time Legislature should act like one. When sessions drag into June, priorities are ignored, and decisions are delayed. Arizonans expect us to pass a budget on time and finish our work. The House vote shows bipartisan support for a firm deadline. April 30 is reasonable, and we should meet it,” according to Representative Justin Wilmeth.
According to the Arizona House GOP, in recent years legislative sessions have extended well past their intended duration.
Wilmeth, a Republican, was elected to the Arizona State House in 2022 to represent the state’s 2nd House District, replacing previous state representative Daniel Hernández Jr..
