The Arizona House of Representatives passed a continuation budget this week, ensuring state government operations will remain fully funded past the June 30 deadline — and doing so without capitulating to a backroom deal struck between the Governor and the Senate.
House Republicans say the move was both necessary and responsible in the face of a flawed budget proposal that failed to gain enough votes in the lower chamber.
The Senate-Governor budget doesn’t have the votes. Period,” said a house staffer. “We were told to take the deal or take the blame. That’s not how good government works.”
The continuation budget maintains current funding levels for critical services while giving lawmakers more time to negotiate a sustainable, transparent, and balanced spending plan — one that actually reflects the priorities of the people.
A Clear Contrast in Leadership
While the Senate and the Governor attempted to push through a partisan deal, House Republicans emphasized that their budget was the first to pass, and did so publicly and transparently.
“While others were making backroom deals, we passed a balanced budget in full public view,” said one GOP representative. “It focused on public safety, key infrastructure, and fiscal accountability — without raising taxes.”
That budget, however, was ignored. Instead, House Republicans were expected to rubber-stamp a proposal they had no part in negotiating.
“We will not be strong-armed into supporting a plan loaded with political favors and short on real reform,” a House budget committee member stated. “The people of Arizona deserve better.”
Protecting Taxpayers and Avoiding Shutdown
Rather than allowing state government to be pushed into crisis, the House acted swiftly by advancing a continuation budget. This move not only protects taxpayers from bloated spending proposals but also prevents the kind of bureaucratic chaos that could disrupt services to Arizona families.
“We’re keeping government open while continuing to fight for a budget that works for everyday Arizonans — not for lobbyists or special interests,” House Republicans emphasized.
Key provisions in the original House budget included:
• Highway infrastructure improvements
• Pay raises for DPS troopers and corrections officers
• Cost-saving reforms to underperforming state programs
The Senate-Governor plan, according to House leadership, walked away from those responsible, people-centered priorities.
The Fight for Fiscal Discipline Continues
House Republicans say they have negotiated in good faith from the beginning of session — and they aren’t done.
“We’ve passed meaningful legislation, kept spending in check, and made our priorities clear. This process should be public — not political theater,” said one Republican lawmaker.
While the continuation budget isn’t a long-term fix, it is a critical step toward securing a spending plan rooted in transparency, discipline, and real-world results.