AZ Lawmakers Want Investigation Into Pima County Reopening Rules

ACROSS ARIZONA—Sen. Vince Leach, Rep. Mark Finchem and Rep. Bret Roberts, all from Legislative District 11, have submitted a request to Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich, calling for an investigation of a Pima County Board of Supervisors proclamation that passed on Wednesday. According to the lawmakers, the proclamation added a multitude of new regulations on businesses attempting to re-open after being shut down because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

"We've seen throughout this crisis how important it is to balance health concerns with the need to reopen businesses and get Arizonans back to work," said Sen. Leach. "Governor Ducey and the legislature have been working with experts to find that balance and determine the best course of action for the entire state. It is unfortunate that Pima County is taking actions that are not consistent with the state. The cumbersome regulations in its proclamation will not facilitate an easy reopening for businesses."

The three legislators believe the county's proclamation violates A.R.S 26-307, which forbids counties, cities and towns from making rules and regulations inconsistent with those issued by the governor.

Rep. Bret Roberts response to Pima County's proclamation:

Governor Ducey's latest Executive Order, issued on Tuesday, referenced this authority, the lawmakers said in a news release. Executive Order 2020-36 states: "Pursuant to A.R.S. § 26-307, no county, city or town may make or issue any order, rule or regulation that conflicts with or is in addition to the policy, directives or intent of this Executive Order, including but not limited to any order restricting persons from leaving their home due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, or any other order, rule or regulation that was not in place as of March 11, 2020."

Arizona Attorney General acknowledged the complaint in a tweet:

The attorney general's office has 30 days to respond to the formally-issued request, according to state law.

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