The New Times published a piece today exploring the impacts of kicking 500 disabled and foster children out of school.
The piece is notable because it spends a lot of time talking to those impacted, namely the families, and less time on the minutia of government workings. This story has always been about the children and it's good to see New Times take the in-depth approach on it.
While Attorney General Terry Goddard said the House cannot transfer money to keep the children in school, House Speaker Jim Weiers is continuing to explore alternatives.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Janet Cam to roll out statewide
The Department of Public Safety announced that it has signed a contract with Redflex to provide 100 fixed and mobile cameras on the state's highways.
DPS hopes to get 50 of them up and running by September, concentrated in the Phoenix area. This is all part of Gov. Janet Napolitano's plan to balance the state budget.
For all the people concerned about getting a ticket, don't worry: no points will be assessed against your license. Just speed, pay the ticket, repeat. The state general fund thanks you.
DPS hopes to get 50 of them up and running by September, concentrated in the Phoenix area. This is all part of Gov. Janet Napolitano's plan to balance the state budget.
For all the people concerned about getting a ticket, don't worry: no points will be assessed against your license. Just speed, pay the ticket, repeat. The state general fund thanks you.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Goddard to disabled children: It's just not your day
Attorney General Terry Goddard informed the House that he is barring the transfer of money from the House to the state school system to pay for scholarships for disabled children to attend the school of their choice.
The disheartening news means that the 500+ disabled and foster kids who anticipated receiving the money this year will have to leave the schools that dealt with their disabilities best.
The two-year-old program gave scholarships to parents of disabled and foster kids to find a public or private school that could handle the complicated needs of their children. House Speaker Jim Weiers had agreed to fund the program from the House reserve account after the governor axed the money in this year's budget.
State schools chief Tom Horne would only accept the money with permission from Goddard, who said Wednesday that he disapproved of the move.
"I am so disappointed that these children will be ripped from the schools that helped them attempt to lead a productive life," Weiers said.
The disheartening news means that the 500+ disabled and foster kids who anticipated receiving the money this year will have to leave the schools that dealt with their disabilities best.
The two-year-old program gave scholarships to parents of disabled and foster kids to find a public or private school that could handle the complicated needs of their children. House Speaker Jim Weiers had agreed to fund the program from the House reserve account after the governor axed the money in this year's budget.
State schools chief Tom Horne would only accept the money with permission from Goddard, who said Wednesday that he disapproved of the move.
"I am so disappointed that these children will be ripped from the schools that helped them attempt to lead a productive life," Weiers said.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Fate of more than 500 disabled and foster children rests with Terry Goddard
House Speaker Jim Weiers and state schools chief Tom Horne signed an agreement Thursday to to send disabled and foster kids to the public or private school chosen by their parents.
But first, Horne wants permission from Attorney General Terry Goddard to make the move.
The money was eliminated in the new budget because of an ongoing court case to determine whether the program was constitutional. The state Supreme Court ruled that the state could continue funding the program as it handles the case. That ruling came a day after the money was eliminated in Gov. Janet Napolitano's budget.
Goddard was asked for a quick opinion. The speaker gave $5 million to Horne to continue the two scholarship programs. The money comes from the House reserve account, which has been built up during the decade thanks mostly to the frugal ways of Weiers.
But first, Horne wants permission from Attorney General Terry Goddard to make the move.
The money was eliminated in the new budget because of an ongoing court case to determine whether the program was constitutional. The state Supreme Court ruled that the state could continue funding the program as it handles the case. That ruling came a day after the money was eliminated in Gov. Janet Napolitano's budget.
Goddard was asked for a quick opinion. The speaker gave $5 million to Horne to continue the two scholarship programs. The money comes from the House reserve account, which has been built up during the decade thanks mostly to the frugal ways of Weiers.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Ken Starr to lead legal charge defending state
Ken Starr has argued dozens of cases in front of the United States Supreme Court.Add another case to his roster.
Starr has agreed to represent Arizona in the long-running English Language Learners lawsuit. The case is going to the Supreme Court, where the Legislature is going to get a chance to show that its funding proposal for children who don't speak English meets federal law.
A loss would mean that hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars would flow to schools without an expectation for an improved result.
His experience arguing before the Supreme Court will be invaluable to the state as it attempts to implement a teaching method that ensures results without breaking the bank.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Governor kicks disabled, disadvantaged children out of school
Parents and children who received the scholarships to attend private and public schools today pleaded for the governor to allow the money to flow back into the program.
Parents like Brendan and Susan Fay, Rob Brightman and Myra Zwagerman spoke to reporters today about the real harm done by the budget approved last month. Written mostly by Gov. Janet Napolitano, the spending plan eliminated about $3 million that went to provide scholarships for disabled and foster children to attend the school of their choice.
The parents are upset because their children have been making progress since moving to private schools. Now, without the money, they will have to return to public schools, which have so far been unable to handle their needs.
House Speaker Jim Weiers and state schools chief Tom Horne are exploring ways to find money to fund the program.
Parents like Brendan and Susan Fay, Rob Brightman and Myra Zwagerman spoke to reporters today about the real harm done by the budget approved last month. Written mostly by Gov. Janet Napolitano, the spending plan eliminated about $3 million that went to provide scholarships for disabled and foster children to attend the school of their choice.
The parents are upset because their children have been making progress since moving to private schools. Now, without the money, they will have to return to public schools, which have so far been unable to handle their needs.
House Speaker Jim Weiers and state schools chief Tom Horne are exploring ways to find money to fund the program.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Signings and vetoes
The governor released a long list of bill signings and vetoes today. Topping the list of signings? House Speaker Jim Weiers' roadside ban on animal sales of course! also, the governor signed a bill that continues a special tax rate until 2040 for renewable energy production plants, an important tool in recruiting companies in the solar production industry.
On the veto side, the development industry negotiated with cities to come up with a bill on impact fees. Despite the hard work and long hours from all the participants, the governor vetoed the bill, saying she wants to see "comprehensive" changes on impact fees.
On the veto side, the development industry negotiated with cities to come up with a bill on impact fees. Despite the hard work and long hours from all the participants, the governor vetoed the bill, saying she wants to see "comprehensive" changes on impact fees.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
News flash: Messenger shot!
In an email from state Health Department director Susan Gerard to the head of the Department of Economic Security regarding the latest case of neglect at the Veteran Home, Gerard wrote the Napolitano Administration embraced a "shoot the messenger mentality."
Well, today Gerard announced she was leaving the Health Department, with no plans for the future.
Gerard had to convince people in the Napolitano Administration the severity of the abuse and neglect at the veteran home.
In the last report that showed a Veteran Home staffer dropped a patient off at his home without medicine or any care plan, the Veteran Home disputed the DHS allegations of neglect in public. Weeks later, the home quietly agreed to everything in that report and received a fine from the federal government.
Despite the allegations, the governor's office downplayed the circumstances, saying there were disagreements with the DHS report.
This is the second departure of a top staff member following a hearing on the allegations of abuse and neglect. Co-chief of staff Alan Stephens left after it was revealed that he knew about the original problems at the veteran home but did not tell Napolitano.
Well, today Gerard announced she was leaving the Health Department, with no plans for the future.
Gerard had to convince people in the Napolitano Administration the severity of the abuse and neglect at the veteran home.
In the last report that showed a Veteran Home staffer dropped a patient off at his home without medicine or any care plan, the Veteran Home disputed the DHS allegations of neglect in public. Weeks later, the home quietly agreed to everything in that report and received a fine from the federal government.
Despite the allegations, the governor's office downplayed the circumstances, saying there were disagreements with the DHS report.
This is the second departure of a top staff member following a hearing on the allegations of abuse and neglect. Co-chief of staff Alan Stephens left after it was revealed that he knew about the original problems at the veteran home but did not tell Napolitano.
Monday, June 30, 2008
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Emily DeRose and Barrett Marson go One On One at 7 p.m. tonight on Horizon.
Up for discussion: the 2009 budget and a little pick for the good, the bad and the ugly of this legislative session.
This will be the last show that focuses on legislative happenings on One On One. That is, until the special session.
Up for discussion: the 2009 budget and a little pick for the good, the bad and the ugly of this legislative session.
This will be the last show that focuses on legislative happenings on One On One. That is, until the special session.
Friday, June 27, 2008
State to Gamblers Anonymous: Push lottery
The state's strategy to plug the budget gap is to rely on vice and illegal behavior.
First, we will fund university projects like the new medical school through massive expansion of the lottery. To get the new money, the state will increase its advertising. For all the people who were unclear that Arizona has a lottery.
Then, the state will ask people to speed up. While the cameras on Loop 101 in Scottsdale appear to have slowed traffic, that strategy will hurt the state's general fund.
The state has approved Janet Cam, which will be a series of 100 cameras set up on highways throughout Arizona. But instead of changing behavior and getting people to slow down, the point is to bring in more money.
Autobahn speed welcome.
First, we will fund university projects like the new medical school through massive expansion of the lottery. To get the new money, the state will increase its advertising. For all the people who were unclear that Arizona has a lottery.
Then, the state will ask people to speed up. While the cameras on Loop 101 in Scottsdale appear to have slowed traffic, that strategy will hurt the state's general fund.
The state has approved Janet Cam, which will be a series of 100 cameras set up on highways throughout Arizona. But instead of changing behavior and getting people to slow down, the point is to bring in more money.
Autobahn speed welcome.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
House vs Senate, it's not just a softball game
Here is a brief, yet helpful breakdown of the two budgets. The Senate provided a few details with actual bills expected to be released sometime just before the Appropriations meeting.
Here is a handy dandy breakdown of the House plan:
$505 million agency reductions – mostly lump sums, as was done in the 2008 budget fix
$391 million fund shifts – moving various excess funds into the general fund
$106 million HURF shift – Highway fund will pay for Highway Patrol, as in many past years
$187 million school count reassessment – fewer children decreases the need for some schools
$85 million BSF – Rainy Day Fund leftover
$18 million revenue sharing – hold harmless from the 2006 tax package
$76 million building renewal – savings from delaying some building repairs
$501 million borrowing - entire amount to bond for school construction
$0 K-12 rollover - making a late payment to schools
$0 Midnight reversion - a payday loan for state agencies
The Senate plans has some similarities:
$350 million agency reductions
$340 million fund transfers
$106 million HURF shift
$141 million school count reassessment
$66 million building renewal
$20 million BSF
$30 million - unspecified raid on money for Arizona counties
$921 million borrowing -- including:
$330 million rollover - paying schools for the month of May 2009 in July 2009
$50 million - midnight reversion, a payday loan for state services
$541 million - borrowing for school construction going as far back as 2006
Here is a handy dandy breakdown of the House plan:
$505 million agency reductions – mostly lump sums, as was done in the 2008 budget fix
$391 million fund shifts – moving various excess funds into the general fund
$106 million HURF shift – Highway fund will pay for Highway Patrol, as in many past years
$187 million school count reassessment – fewer children decreases the need for some schools
$85 million BSF – Rainy Day Fund leftover
$18 million revenue sharing – hold harmless from the 2006 tax package
$76 million building renewal – savings from delaying some building repairs
$501 million borrowing - entire amount to bond for school construction
$0 K-12 rollover - making a late payment to schools
$0 Midnight reversion - a payday loan for state agencies
The Senate plans has some similarities:
$350 million agency reductions
$340 million fund transfers
$106 million HURF shift
$141 million school count reassessment
$66 million building renewal
$20 million BSF
$30 million - unspecified raid on money for Arizona counties
$921 million borrowing -- including:
$330 million rollover - paying schools for the month of May 2009 in July 2009
$50 million - midnight reversion, a payday loan for state services
$541 million - borrowing for school construction going as far back as 2006
Monday, June 23, 2008
House unveils 2009 budget
House Speaker Jim Weiers offered the first details on the House plan to close a $1.9 billion deficit for next year.
Highlights of the plan include $500 million in agency reductions would not touch classrooms or Child Protective Services, the state would borrow $500 million for school construction and another $500 million or so would come from fund shifts.
The budget gets a hearing Wednesday.
The proposal combines months of negotiations and input from House and Senate members, Republicans and Democrats and includes some of the governor's demands, such as borrowing for school construction.
Friday, June 20, 2008
CPS equation: 2 dead kids = $1 million
This week, the state settled a lawsuit brought by the mother of two dead children.
Child Protective Services decided that, despite a court order giving sole custody to their mother, Tyler and Ariana Payne should remain with their father.
That tragic decision led to the deaths of Tyler and Ariana. Their father is awaiting trial on murder charges.
The children's mother sued the state and CPS settled out of court for $1 million. And it admitted no wrongdoing.
The only ray of hope that came from the deaths of the two children were sweeping reforms approved by the Legislature that makes CPS more accountable when it errs.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Just another ho-hum day at the House
The House gave final approval to a group of CPS reform bills that came about after the deaths of three children in Tucson after contact with CPS.
Taken together, the reforms will both save lives and make CPS accountable. Often, CPS has hidden behind state law that barred the release of information after the death of a child. Now, with some exemptions for the protection of a sibling and a potential criminal case, the records are now presumed to be open.
The bills were sponsored by Reps. Kirk Adams and Jonathan Paton, who spent hours listening to sometimes painful testimony on the failings of CPS. The bills are now on their way to the governor for her signature.
Next up was Rep. Michele Reagan introducing a jobs creation package designed to stimulate the state's economy. The House Commerce Committee held an informational meeting on the package, with testimony from proponents on the impact the legislation could have on Arizona.
Taken together, the reforms will both save lives and make CPS accountable. Often, CPS has hidden behind state law that barred the release of information after the death of a child. Now, with some exemptions for the protection of a sibling and a potential criminal case, the records are now presumed to be open.
The bills were sponsored by Reps. Kirk Adams and Jonathan Paton, who spent hours listening to sometimes painful testimony on the failings of CPS. The bills are now on their way to the governor for her signature.
Next up was Rep. Michele Reagan introducing a jobs creation package designed to stimulate the state's economy. The House Commerce Committee held an informational meeting on the package, with testimony from proponents on the impact the legislation could have on Arizona.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
One-on-One with Emily DeRose
It was more fun fun fun on Horizon's One On One with Emily DeRose and Barrett Marson. Check out the video.
House to unveil major jobs creation package Thursday
(State Capitol, Phoenix) – In a bid to reinvigorate Arizona’s economy for the long term, the House will unveil a new effort to bring thousands jobs to the state.
The proposal, sponsored by House Commerce Chairwoman Michele Reagan, focuses on bringing in new manufacturing jobs, revitalizing urban areas, attracting tourists, maintaining or expanding the Cactus League and stabilizing the construction market. No current general fund money would be used for the projects.
The four components include:
Offering incentives to new businesses that set up shop in Arizona to manufacture solar energy components in Arizona. Arizona is emerging as a leader in the solar energy field. A new billion-dollar solar generation facility will open in Gila Bend. This credit would be given to manufacturers of solar equipment that pay employees 150 percent of the county’s median wage and offer health care to their employees. It would lead to 4,000 jobs in the first year alone.
Giving Pima County voters the chance to approve targeted taxes to pay for improvements to their Cactus League ballparks. This allows Pima County to retain their current teams and even attract new teams from Florida.
The proposal, sponsored by House Commerce Chairwoman Michele Reagan, focuses on bringing in new manufacturing jobs, revitalizing urban areas, attracting tourists, maintaining or expanding the Cactus League and stabilizing the construction market. No current general fund money would be used for the projects.
The four components include:
Offering incentives to new businesses that set up shop in Arizona to manufacture solar energy components in Arizona. Arizona is emerging as a leader in the solar energy field. A new billion-dollar solar generation facility will open in Gila Bend. This credit would be given to manufacturers of solar equipment that pay employees 150 percent of the county’s median wage and offer health care to their employees. It would lead to 4,000 jobs in the first year alone.
Giving Pima County voters the chance to approve targeted taxes to pay for improvements to their Cactus League ballparks. This allows Pima County to retain their current teams and even attract new teams from Florida.
Research and development tax credit. The state already has an R&D tax credit but the Legislature would expand it with the condition that only new projects would qualify.
Revitalizing urban areas with incentives for redevelopment. To spur progress like the Tempe Town Lake development, areas that fit into certain criteria would be able to offer exemptions from prime contracting tax classification, sales tax on construction goods and the city sales tax. However, the .6 cent sales tax for education would still be collected. This could lead to new employment centers where blight now exists.
Reagan said Arizona needs to act now to turn around a moribund economy.
“The main goal in producing this package is to create a significant number of jobs without costing a taxpayers any money,” Reagan, R-Scottsdale, said. “Arizona can and should be leading the way in solar energy production and this bill ensures we get the full economic impact.”
Reagan will hold an informational meeting at 10 a.m. Thursday in House Hearing Room 1.
District 1 Republican Rep. Andy Tobin, who helped craft the package, said he wants to ensure Arizona’s long-term prospects are solid when the next housing crisis hits.
“The state got hit hard because we relied on growth to create wealth and sustain our economy,” Tobin said. “By bringing manufacturing jobs and encouraging redevelopment, Arizona can diversify its economy. We will not sit on our hands and wait for the economy to return. We need these good jobs now.”
House Speaker Jim Weiers, R-Phoenix, said he has been working for the last several months to increase our renewable energy economy. The state has lost several large-scale manufacturers to other states even though Arizona should be the leader in all things solar.
“The sun is cheap and our most available resource,” Weiers said. “We need to capitalize on that abundance of sun light and a population that wants to get back to work.”
Revitalizing urban areas with incentives for redevelopment. To spur progress like the Tempe Town Lake development, areas that fit into certain criteria would be able to offer exemptions from prime contracting tax classification, sales tax on construction goods and the city sales tax. However, the .6 cent sales tax for education would still be collected. This could lead to new employment centers where blight now exists.
Reagan said Arizona needs to act now to turn around a moribund economy.
“The main goal in producing this package is to create a significant number of jobs without costing a taxpayers any money,” Reagan, R-Scottsdale, said. “Arizona can and should be leading the way in solar energy production and this bill ensures we get the full economic impact.”
Reagan will hold an informational meeting at 10 a.m. Thursday in House Hearing Room 1.
District 1 Republican Rep. Andy Tobin, who helped craft the package, said he wants to ensure Arizona’s long-term prospects are solid when the next housing crisis hits.
“The state got hit hard because we relied on growth to create wealth and sustain our economy,” Tobin said. “By bringing manufacturing jobs and encouraging redevelopment, Arizona can diversify its economy. We will not sit on our hands and wait for the economy to return. We need these good jobs now.”
House Speaker Jim Weiers, R-Phoenix, said he has been working for the last several months to increase our renewable energy economy. The state has lost several large-scale manufacturers to other states even though Arizona should be the leader in all things solar.
“The sun is cheap and our most available resource,” Weiers said. “We need to capitalize on that abundance of sun light and a population that wants to get back to work.”
Monday, June 16, 2008
One On One returns
Horizon's One On One is back on tonight at at 7 p.m.
House GOP spokesman Barrett Marson and state Democrat Party spokeswoman Emily DeRose (the former Bittner) tackle last week's worksite enforcement 9th Circuit court hearing and the latest budget news.
It should be a hoot!
House GOP spokesman Barrett Marson and state Democrat Party spokeswoman Emily DeRose (the former Bittner) tackle last week's worksite enforcement 9th Circuit court hearing and the latest budget news.
It should be a hoot!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
ASU softball team honored on House floor
Members of the national championship ASU softball team came to the House today at the invitation of Speaker Pro Tem Bob Robson (at right, with team members and trophy).The team received a proclamation from House Speaker Jim Weiers and were congratulated by House members for their performance, including an 11-0 romp over Texas A&M to win the national title.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
First worksite enforcement case?
Sheriff Joe served search warrants at three Valley businesses today and arrested several employees.
The investigation began after a tip from a former employee that included detailed information. If Waterworld, Big Surf or Golfland knowingly or intentionally violated the state law, they could face up to a 10-day suspension of their business licenses.
The investigation began after a tip from a former employee that included detailed information. If Waterworld, Big Surf or Golfland knowingly or intentionally violated the state law, they could face up to a 10-day suspension of their business licenses.
Services for Sen. Flake announced
Sen. Jake Flake's family decided to have a memorial service in Phoenix as well as a funeral in Snowflake, ensuring people from the Valley who want to pay their respects have an opportunity.
Here is the information:
The memorial is at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at the LDS Phoenix East Stake Center, 1835 E. Missouri.
The funeral is at 11:00 a.m. Friday at the Snowflake Main Street Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Visitation is from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the Main Street Chapel. Additional visitation begins at 9:00 a.m. Friday.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions be sent to:
Snowflake Academy Foundation
30 W. 2nd South
Snowflake, Arizona 85937
Here is the information:
The memorial is at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at the LDS Phoenix East Stake Center, 1835 E. Missouri.
The funeral is at 11:00 a.m. Friday at the Snowflake Main Street Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Visitation is from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the Main Street Chapel. Additional visitation begins at 9:00 a.m. Friday.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions be sent to:
Snowflake Academy Foundation
30 W. 2nd South
Snowflake, Arizona 85937
Monday, June 9, 2008
Vets home hit with open records
Rep. John Nelson, chairman of the House Counties, Municipalities and Military Affairs Committee, submitted an open records request to the state Veterans Home. And Nelson specifically reminded the vets home that it is illegal to destroy public documents.
1700 WEST WASHINGTON, SUITE H
PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85007-2844
CAPITOL PHONE: (602) 926-5872
CAPITOL FAX: (602) 417-3112
TOLL FREE: 1-800-352-8404
jnelson@azleg.gov
COMMITTEES:
COUNTIES, MUNICIPALITIES AND
MILITARY AFFAIRS, CHAIRMAN
NATURAL RESOURCES AND
PUBLIC SAFETY
TRANSPORTATION
JOINT LEGISLATIVE AUDIT
COMMITTEE, VICE-CHAIRMAN
09 June 2008
JOHN B. NELSON
DISTRICT 12
Arizona Veterans’ Home
Attention: General Greg Maxon
3839 North 3rd Street, Ste. 200
Phoenix, Arizona 85012
Re: Public records request
Dear General Maxon:
Pursuant to title 39, chapter 1, article 2, Arizona Revised Statutes, I am making a public records request for the following documents. These requested materials will not be used for a commercial purpose. Additionally, this method of acquisition is far less adversarial than the myriad of unpleasantries associated with Title 41, chapter 7, article 4, Arizona Revised Statutes. Please provide me with copies of the following documents:
1) All documents relating to protocols and rules related to the discharge of patients.
2) Procurement and billing records for the last eighteen months, including any documents that have been placed in shredding bins or that are scheduled for destruction. (December 9, 2006 - June 9, 2008).
3) Any public documents related to employee discharge or discipline for all employees for the period described in item two above.
By way of gentle reminder, unlawful destruction of public records is a class 4 felony. As a practical matter, please place a “litigation hold” on receipt of this fax, original to follow, on any materials that fit within the confines of my request.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter. Please contact me immediately when my request has been processed. If copying proves too burdensome or time consuming, several legislative employees and I would be happy to review materials on site.
Sincerely,
Rep. John Nelson
Chairman, Counties, Municipalities & Military Affairs
1700 WEST WASHINGTON, SUITE H
PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85007-2844
CAPITOL PHONE: (602) 926-5872
CAPITOL FAX: (602) 417-3112
TOLL FREE: 1-800-352-8404
jnelson@azleg.gov
COMMITTEES:
COUNTIES, MUNICIPALITIES AND
MILITARY AFFAIRS, CHAIRMAN
NATURAL RESOURCES AND
PUBLIC SAFETY
TRANSPORTATION
JOINT LEGISLATIVE AUDIT
COMMITTEE, VICE-CHAIRMAN
09 June 2008
JOHN B. NELSON
DISTRICT 12
Arizona Veterans’ Home
Attention: General Greg Maxon
3839 North 3rd Street, Ste. 200
Phoenix, Arizona 85012
Re: Public records request
Dear General Maxon:
Pursuant to title 39, chapter 1, article 2, Arizona Revised Statutes, I am making a public records request for the following documents. These requested materials will not be used for a commercial purpose. Additionally, this method of acquisition is far less adversarial than the myriad of unpleasantries associated with Title 41, chapter 7, article 4, Arizona Revised Statutes. Please provide me with copies of the following documents:
1) All documents relating to protocols and rules related to the discharge of patients.
2) Procurement and billing records for the last eighteen months, including any documents that have been placed in shredding bins or that are scheduled for destruction. (December 9, 2006 - June 9, 2008).
3) Any public documents related to employee discharge or discipline for all employees for the period described in item two above.
By way of gentle reminder, unlawful destruction of public records is a class 4 felony. As a practical matter, please place a “litigation hold” on receipt of this fax, original to follow, on any materials that fit within the confines of my request.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter. Please contact me immediately when my request has been processed. If copying proves too burdensome or time consuming, several legislative employees and I would be happy to review materials on site.
Sincerely,
Rep. John Nelson
Chairman, Counties, Municipalities & Military Affairs
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Jake Flake: A cowboy legislator's passing
Sen. Jake Flake, former speaker of the House, passed away Sunday at his home.Flake was one of the last cowboy legislators, as documented here. He was still ranching to the end, getting thrown off a horse last month, breaking eight ribs.
"These guys are a symbol of the Old West that many of us want to hold on to," Arizona historian Jack August said. "They represent a way of life that all of us want to keep in our hopes and dreams. A part of our intellectual warehouse as Arizonans includes a guy on a horse rounding up cattle in the fall."
House Speaker Jim Weiers made the following statement:
Jake was one of the last of the famed cowboy legislators. His country drawl, ranch-spun stories and devotion to a rural life so few of us in the Legislature know always made a conversation with Jake a learning experience. We will miss him and Arizona will miss his experience. It was great knowing him and serving the people of Arizona with him. My thoughts are with his family and I pray they will get through this difficult time knowing how much Jake was adored.
Friday, June 6, 2008
A secret message in the new Arizona quarter?
Throughout time, people have left secret messages in works of art, things only specific people would understand. Play a Beatles album backward, and you may hear, "I buried Paul" sung by John Lennon.And as everyone is aware, Gov. Janet Napolitano and House Speaker Jim Weiers have had a relationship as rocky as Camelback Mountain.
But did something change? Has the governor sent the speaker a secret message in Arizona's new coin?
The coin, sculpted by Joseph Menna and personally selected by Napolitano contains, just under the saguaro, the word "JIM." You certainly need a magnifying glass, but there it is. Looking at the East Valley Tribune Monday, the lettering is undeniable. (Click on the image to enlarge.)
Is this the olive branch for all to see? A detente between two state leaders? A secret message from Janet Napolitano to Jim Weiers that the two can work together?
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Lawmakers want change to the way lawyers receive discipline
A group of legislators released a letter yesterday, backing Maricopa County Attorney Andy Thomas in his fight against the State Bar Association.
The letter states:
We also note that Rule 2 of the American Bar Association Model Rules for Disciplinary Enforcement state that State Bar Associations should not be in charge of discipline because of the potential for conflicts of interest. They specifically recommend a separate structure housed within the highest court in the state. Arizona is nowhere near the Model Rules structure suggested by the ABA.
Rep. Russell Pearce, R-Mesa, is leading the way in both backing Thomas, who has been attacked for upholding the voter-approved measure to deny bail to illegal immigrants, and considering a change to how lawyers are investigated.
The letter states:
We also note that Rule 2 of the American Bar Association Model Rules for Disciplinary Enforcement state that State Bar Associations should not be in charge of discipline because of the potential for conflicts of interest. They specifically recommend a separate structure housed within the highest court in the state. Arizona is nowhere near the Model Rules structure suggested by the ABA.
Rep. Russell Pearce, R-Mesa, is leading the way in both backing Thomas, who has been attacked for upholding the voter-approved measure to deny bail to illegal immigrants, and considering a change to how lawyers are investigated.
Legislature toughens DUI laws
The Legislature put politics aside to toughen the state's DUI laws today.
Last month, the governor vetoed a bill that would have taken away the driver license of a suspected drunk driver who kills a person, barred judges from reducing jail sentences against the worst drunk drivers and reduced the amount of time drivers must use an interlock device only if they changed their behavior by completing treatment.
Without ever contacting the sponsor of the legislation, the governor vetoed the bill citing the treatment and interlock aspect.
Now, HB2643 does most of those things. The Legislature omitted the treatment aspect to assure the governor's approval.
Last month, the governor vetoed a bill that would have taken away the driver license of a suspected drunk driver who kills a person, barred judges from reducing jail sentences against the worst drunk drivers and reduced the amount of time drivers must use an interlock device only if they changed their behavior by completing treatment.
Without ever contacting the sponsor of the legislation, the governor vetoed the bill citing the treatment and interlock aspect.
Now, HB2643 does most of those things. The Legislature omitted the treatment aspect to assure the governor's approval.
Monday, June 2, 2008
8 billion more and we solve the deficit
The US Mint released the Arizona quarter and, after a ceremony on the Senate lawn, kids lined up along 17th Avenue today to get their hands on the newest coin.Rep. Jerry Weiers, R-Glendale, sat on the commission that winnowed the original options to the winner.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Republic loses Gov. Napolitano as reader
A couple weeks ago, the governor said she was shocked, just shocked, to learn there were so many outstanding felony warrants.If only the the governor read the state's largest newspaper, the Arizona Republic, it wouldn't have been a surprise.
Arpaio's Web site names 70,000 being sought on arrest warrants
Are you wanted by the law?
Are you sure?
You may want to check the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office Web site to be sure, Sheriff Joe Arpaio says. The site lists 70,000 people with warrants for their arrest.
The story ran in January 2007, just 16 months ago.
Former Republic reporter Judi Villa wrote that piece as well as this one in May 2003 that examines the warrant issue, even talking to local police agencies about the problem.
Yet, on any given day, there are more than 70,000 criminal warrants outstanding in Maricopa County, a handful dating to 1970. About half of the warrants are for felonies, including hundreds for murders, rapes, child molestations and other violent crimes. That's more, and in some cases double, the number of felony warrants in four similar-size counties nationwide.
Local law enforcement agencies say they simply don't have the resources to track down fugitives. They blame a burgeoning population and an increase in the number of courts in the Valley. Some also question whether bail restrictions need to be tightened to keep more people behind bars in the first place.
Local law enforcement agencies say they simply don't have the resources to track down fugitives. They blame a burgeoning population and an increase in the number of courts in the Valley. Some also question whether bail restrictions need to be tightened to keep more people behind bars in the first place.
Sometimes, it's just right there in black and white.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Az Capitol TV now worldwide
Arizona Capitol Television, which broadcasts legislative action, interviews with lawmakers and human interest stories, is now available online at the Legislature's web site.
Captiol TV is available on Cox 123 for digital subscribers but is not available for satellite subscribers. For all those Dish viewers, here is your chance to catch what's going on at the Legislature.
Captiol TV is available on Cox 123 for digital subscribers but is not available for satellite subscribers. For all those Dish viewers, here is your chance to catch what's going on at the Legislature.
Legislature mandates divestment in companies that do business in Iran
Companies that invest in Iran will no longer get money from Arizona's retirement entities.Rep. Jonathan Paton, R-Tucson, sponsored HB2151 to ban Arizona's investment in foreign companies and bar the state from purchasing or contracting with those companies as well. State government etirement groups such as the Arizona State Retirement System must divest its holdings in those companies.
Iran's threat is undeniable and Paton has seen their destructive capabilities first hand. As a first lieutenant in the Army Reserve, Paton spent about six months in Iraq as an intelligence officer. He saw some of the weapons that came from Iran and used to attack American troops. Signed last week, the bill contained an emergency clause and is effective immediately.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Veterans' home mismanagement continues
The state health department again placed the Arizona Veterans' Home in immediate jeopardy, saying the care threatened the safety of the patients.
The East Valley Tribune reports on the latest problems here.
Problems at the home are becoming epidemic. This is the third series of stories in the last year on the problems inside the home. The latest problem centers around a patient who was discharged but not able to care for himself. With an immediate jeopardy declaration, DHS staff will not leave until home administrators fix the problem.
Health inspectors declared residents at the state-run nursing home for military veterans to be in immediate jeopardy this week following allegations that staff members discharged a man who was too ill to care for himself, drove him home and left him there alone.
The Legislature appropriated $3.5 million to improve care after initial problems surfaced last year and the state fined the home $10,000. Since then, the home has been fined another $10,000 and DHS has stepped in for a second time to declare immediate jeopardy.
The East Valley Tribune reports on the latest problems here.
Problems at the home are becoming epidemic. This is the third series of stories in the last year on the problems inside the home. The latest problem centers around a patient who was discharged but not able to care for himself. With an immediate jeopardy declaration, DHS staff will not leave until home administrators fix the problem.
Health inspectors declared residents at the state-run nursing home for military veterans to be in immediate jeopardy this week following allegations that staff members discharged a man who was too ill to care for himself, drove him home and left him there alone.
The Legislature appropriated $3.5 million to improve care after initial problems surfaced last year and the state fined the home $10,000. Since then, the home has been fined another $10,000 and DHS has stepped in for a second time to declare immediate jeopardy.
Friday, May 23, 2008
It's cloudy today but it's always sunny at the Legislature
The Legislature is considering several bills sponsored by Rep. Lucy Mason of Prescott that deal with solar power.One, HB2615, limits the amount of money cities can charge for permits to install solar panels on a home's roof.
Cities must justify the cost of the permit.
Some cities charged exorbitant fees for the building permit. However, both the federal government and local power companies offer tax breaks or incentives to help pay for the solar units as a way to increase their usage. It doesn't make sense to have cities charging high fees to put put the panels on the roof.
The governor signed the bill today.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Robson closes loophole on teachers accused of felonies
The East Valley Tribune uncovered a disturbing occurrence earlier this year.
For six months, teacher Angela Csader walked into her kindergarten classroom with a secret.
The 25-year-old Queen Creek woman was arrested in July on suspicion of having sex with a 16-year-old Gilbert boy - a boy who fathered her child.
Yet officials at Anthem Elementary School and the Florence Unified School District said they knew nothing about it. She continued to teach students during a half-year span when she appeared multiple times before a Maricopa County court and was on supervised release with a curfew.
House Speaker Pro Tem Bob Robson, a Chandler Republican, immediately jumped to close a significant loophole.
The resulting bill, HB2042, was signed into the law this week. Teachers must now disclose any arrest for a felony or face the loss of a teaching certificate. Also the Department of Public Safety, which issues fingerprint clearance cards, must send schools information if someone with a card is charged with a felony.
For six months, teacher Angela Csader walked into her kindergarten classroom with a secret.
The 25-year-old Queen Creek woman was arrested in July on suspicion of having sex with a 16-year-old Gilbert boy - a boy who fathered her child.
Yet officials at Anthem Elementary School and the Florence Unified School District said they knew nothing about it. She continued to teach students during a half-year span when she appeared multiple times before a Maricopa County court and was on supervised release with a curfew.
House Speaker Pro Tem Bob Robson, a Chandler Republican, immediately jumped to close a significant loophole.
The resulting bill, HB2042, was signed into the law this week. Teachers must now disclose any arrest for a felony or face the loss of a teaching certificate. Also the Department of Public Safety, which issues fingerprint clearance cards, must send schools information if someone with a card is charged with a felony.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Warrantless questions
The attorney general is often referred to as the state's "top cop."But somehow, Arizona's top cop between 1999 and 2003 didn't know that Maricopa County had 36,000 outstanding felony warrants.
The Republic writes today that the warrant issue Gov. Janet Napolitano now relies on to take away money intended to fight illegal immigration has been a problem since she was Arizona's top cop. But Napolitano claims she did not know the extent of the problem since the AG's office doesnt go after felony fugitives.
At the time, maybe the attorney general was too concerned with this to find out how many outstanding felony warrants were in Arizona.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Wheels on the bus go round and round
DPS Lt. Dan Wells is the commander of the state gang task force that also deals with illegal immigration. GIITEM, as its called, funds both state and local agencies with grants to combat human smuggling operations.DPS has an agreement with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for about $1.6 million, with the money coming from a fund appropriated by the Legislature specifically to deal with illegal immigration.
Wells sent a letter April 1 to MCSO confirming there was money to fund another year's efforts. Unfortunately, five weeks later, the governor decided to divert the money.
Gov. Napolitano's spokeswoman, Jeanine L'Ecuyer, was left to clean up the mess.
Napolitano spokeswoman Jeanine L'Ecuyer attributed the memo to "crossed wires" between the DPS and Governor's Office.
"It's a big office," she explained. "It just sounds to me like Wells was out of the loop for whatever reason."
One initiative, two backroom deals?
Much has been made of the agreement between Gov. Janet Napolitano and the home builders on her initiative to increase the state sales tax by a 1 penny to fund transportation projects.
In that deal, the governor removed language that would have added money to the cost of a new home for transportation in exchange for at least $100,000 in campaign money.
Now, the Arizona Capitol Times is reporting that $1.3 billion of the tax would go directly to non-profit organizations, including environmental groups, to fund their pet projects.
Putting more than a billion dollars into the Open Space Conservation and Wildlife Fund is drawing criticism.
"If it's a tax that the public is asked to pay to improve the roads, that's what it should be used for, not what some 501c thinks is appropriate," the Capitol Times quotes Farm Bureau chief Jim Klinker.
In that deal, the governor removed language that would have added money to the cost of a new home for transportation in exchange for at least $100,000 in campaign money.
Now, the Arizona Capitol Times is reporting that $1.3 billion of the tax would go directly to non-profit organizations, including environmental groups, to fund their pet projects.
Putting more than a billion dollars into the Open Space Conservation and Wildlife Fund is drawing criticism.
"If it's a tax that the public is asked to pay to improve the roads, that's what it should be used for, not what some 501c thinks is appropriate," the Capitol Times quotes Farm Bureau chief Jim Klinker.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
It's in black and white, now read
Reprinted for your enjoyment are two letters from the Arizona Department of Public Safety regarding funding for the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office human smuggling detail.This week has seen a Clash of the Titans between Gov. Janet Napolitano and Sheriff Joe Arpaio. Napolitano is trying to put a halt to state funding for his efforts to target human smugglers.
Notice in the first letter from DPS that the agreement "shall automatically renew" if funding is available. And the Legislature has ensured that the money is there.
Also, one technicality exists in the governor's plan to divert money to a new detail. DPS has no authority to spend the money to find people with warrants out of the dollars set aside for illegal immigration. According to state law, the money must be used by the Gang and Immigration Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission for illegal immigration purposes.
Click on each letter to enlarge.
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