A resolution that would prevent Arizona lawmakers and other state officials from receiving their salaries if a budget is not passed on time has advanced out of the House Government Committee. The measure, known as HCR 2048, proposes changes to the state constitution that would prohibit salary increases for elected state officers during their current term and require legislators, the Governor, and statewide executive officers to forgo regular salaries and subsistence payments if the general appropriation bill is not signed into law by April 30.
Under this proposal, any compensation withheld due to a budget delay would not be paid retroactively. Salaries would resume with the first full pay period after the budget becomes law.
“If we do not pass a budget on time, we should not get paid. It is that simple,” said Representative Way. “Arizonans are expected to meet deadlines in their jobs. Lawmakers should be held to that same standard. If we fail to finish the budget by April 30, there should be consequences.”
The resolution works alongside another legislative proposal, House Concurrent Resolution 2005, which was introduced by Representative Justin Wilmeth. That measure would require the Legislature to adjourn its regular session by April 30.
“Deadlines matter,” Representative Way said. “Families and businesses across Arizona operate on them every day. State government should do the same.”
If HCR 2048 receives approval from both chambers of the Legislature, it will appear before voters at the next general election.
Carbone, a Republican who began representing Arizona’s 25th House District in 2023 after replacing Michelle Udall, is among those currently serving in the state legislature.
