House Republicans in Arizona have advanced a legislative package aimed at reducing energy costs for families across the state. The bills, passed under the leadership of Chairman Gail Griffin, are part of the House Republican Majority Plan and focus on lowering fuel prices, protecting ratepayers from increased utility bills, and ensuring reliable power as demand grows.
Chairman Gail Griffin stated, “The cost of living for Arizona families, including gas and electricity, continues to increase, and Republicans are acting. This package puts affordability first by lowering fuel costs, protecting ratepayers from higher utility bills, and making sure Arizona has dependable power as demand grows. The Majority Plan is clear: government should work to ease the cost burden on families, not make them worse.”
Several measures target high gasoline prices in Maricopa and Pinal Counties. HB 2145 would allow legislative leaders to request an EPA fuel waiver during shortages if the Governor does not act. HB 2400 proposes suspending the state’s 18-cent gas tax from May through September in those counties while compensating local governments for lost revenue. HB 2696 directs the Arizona Commerce Authority to prioritize lowering gas prices over two years by exploring new pipelines, an in-state refinery, and a strategic fuel reserve. HB 2955 seeks to end the costly summer fuel blend requirement pending federal approval. HCM 2008 urges Congress to eliminate the federal gas tax during the same months as the proposed state tax holiday.
Other bills require regular reviews of lower-cost fuel blends (HB 2014 and HB 2401) or enable voluntary mobile emission reduction credit programs (HB 2428). These initiatives are supported by chambers of commerce, utilities, and Maricopa County.
Majority Whip Julie Willoughby commented on public participation in these discussions: “Today we heard from organizations with the time and resources to lobby against affordable prices for Arizona families, but not from the families paying more at the pump. Working families cannot take time off to come to the Capitol and ask for relief; that is why we are here to help be their voices. Eighteen cents a gallon may sound small to some, but it matters to families trying to make ends meet. I will do everything in my power to deliver relief now while we continue working to fix the fuel blend and supply problems. Families need lower prices, not excuses.”
In addition to addressing gasoline costs, lawmakers approved measures designed to protect residential customers from rising utility rates and strengthen energy reliability. HB 2331 would require utilities to meet an 85 percent reliable energy standard by 2030 by limiting unreliable generation sources. HB 2756 aims to shield residential customers from higher rates associated with large data center demand through special utility contracts.
Chairman Griffin added: “Higher gas prices hit everyone, no matter how they vote,” said Chairman Griffin. “I don’t see why asking our federal delegation to work with the EPA to get cheaper gas for Arizona should be controversial. No one wants to pay more at the pump. This is one issue where we should be able to come together and address the issue that matters most to Arizona families.”
Most bills were approved along party lines with Democrats voting against them. The legislation will move forward for further consideration as House Republicans pursue policies focused on affordability and dependable energy.
Carbone was elected as a Republican representative for Arizona’s 25th House District in 2023 after replacing Michelle Udall.
