HCR 2048, a resolution introduced by Representative Michael Way, seeks to implement new rules regarding pay for Arizona state officials. The proposal includes two main reforms that would require voter approval. First, it would prevent salary increases for elected state officers from taking effect during their current term. Second, it would mandate that legislators, the Governor, and statewide executive officers stop receiving regular salaries and subsistence payments if the general appropriation bill is not signed into law by April 30.
Under this resolution, any compensation withheld due to a budget delay would not be paid retroactively after a budget is passed. Instead, salaries would resume only with the first full pay period following the enactment of the budget.
Representative Way stated, “Taxpayers do not get paid for work they do not finish, and lawmakers should not be treated any differently. We are elected to do one essential job each year, pass a state budget. If we fail to meet that deadline, we should not collect a paycheck.”
The resolution works alongside House Concurrent Resolution 2005 from Representative Justin Wilmeth. That measure proposes requiring the Legislature to adjourn its regular session by April 30. Together, these efforts aim to address issues related to extended legislative sessions and repeated delays in passing the state budget.
“For too long, budget deadlines have been treated as suggestions instead of requirements,” said Representative Way. “HCR 2048 changes the incentive structure and makes elected officials accountable for doing the job they were sent here to do.”
If HCR 2048 passes through the Legislature, it will go before voters at the next general election and take effect if approved.
Michael Carbone was elected as a Republican representative for Arizona’s 25th House District in 2023, succeeding Michelle Udall.
