NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

FUND PROTECTION; REGULATORY REFORM
On a positive note there are new laws protecting water resources funds and increased fees levied by the department of environmental quality. The purpose of the laws is to prevent the Legislature from simply sweeping funds collected for those specific purposes into the general fund and appropriating them for unrelated uses. In addition regulatory reforms were enacted that require evaluation of proposed regulations on business, seek to provide new opportunities for state contracts with private enterprise and require an agency to use a general permit for similar activities.

LUKE AFB
Of particular interest to the West Valley is Senate Bill 1410, sponsored by Senator John Nelson that allows state land to be exchanged for public land to assist in preserving and protecting military facilities.

JUST THE STATS….
Of the 1233 bills introduced, 352 were sent to the Governor. Brewer signed 338 and vetoed 14. In addition four measures were sent to the ballot.