Arizona Legislative Standoff Over Disability Funding

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has imposed a moratorium on signing new legislation until lawmakers approve a bipartisan emergency funding bill to address a $122 million shortfall for the Division of Developmental Disabilities, affecting nearly 60,000 residents. The dispute has resulted in Democrats voting against all bills and heightened partisan tensions, with Republicans blaming Hobbs for the funding crisis. Hobbs recently vetoed 15 bills on topics including water, SNAP benefits, and elections. She also faces pressure regarding House Bill 2640, which would require public schools to prioritize selling unused buildings to charter and private schools, a move criticized by public education advocates. The legislative impasse has raised concerns about essential services and the impact of political divides on Arizona's vulnerable populations.