In-Person Event was held on Wednesday, February 21, 2024

AAUW AZ was proud to host Legislative Day at the Historic Senate Chambers at the Arizona Capitol Museum.

Almost 50 AAUW members from around AZ representing six branches attended that began with a welcome to the Capitol from AZ Secretary of State, Adrian Fontes. His history of the Capitol was also framed with an intense defense of free and open elections.

The day was moderated by Jodi Liggett who introduced the “Budget and Policy Outlook: The Governor’s View” panel consisting of Sarah Brown, Director of Strategic Planning and Budget, and Zaid Dedolph-Piecoro, Health and Human Services Policy Advisor. Both panelists are part of Governor Hobbs administration. The discussion went into great detail about the budget, attempts to balance that budget, and Hobbs’ priorities including funding of schools and ESA, childcare assistance, and healthcare. Meaningful questions were asked by AAUW members and well answered by the presenters.

Phoenix local anchor and reporter for Channel 12 News, Brahm Resnik, followed with a discussion of not only his life as a reporter, but also about the state of politics in Arizona. Filled with thoughtful memories, he brought to life the transformation that has occurred over the past 20 years in our State. Questions again were asked and answered.

After a very short break, the group heard from Richie Taylor, Communications Director for the Attorney General’s Office. He outlined the duties of the Attorney General, the priorities of the office as well as the issues impacting the State of Arizona.

For those who were interested in signing up for Request to Speak, Betsy Flaten offered her assistance by showing them how to sign up at the Senate sign-up terminals. About 15 people remained in the historic Senate chamber to ‘munch and learn’ about Signature Collection for AZ for Abortion Access ballot measure.

Responses from those attending were overwhelmingly positive. Individuals appreciated the open question sessions as well as the depth of the presentations.

It was a good day for AAUW in Arizona. See you all again in 2025!