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Representative objects to bill leasing state facility to federal government for $1; committee advances measure
Summary
Representative Gutierrez told colleagues that Senate Bill 12-94 would lease a large state facility to the federal government for $1 and that the town of Marana had not been consulted, calling the arrangement a giveaway. The Committee of the Whole nevertheless returned the bill with a do-pass recommendation.
Representative Gutierrez used floor time on April 10 to criticize Senate Bill 12-94, calling it an improper transfer of state assets to the federal government under terms she described as unfavorable to local interests.
Gist of the debate - Representative Gutierrez said the bill "leases this huge building to the government, to the federal government for $1" and that the town of Marana was not involved. She asked why the state would give the facility away and said "our federal government is not bankrupt; they don't need handouts from the state of Arizona." She described the proposal as preemptive and an "affront to the people of Marana." - Chairman Marshall and the committee proceeded without extended discussion; the Committee of the Whole reported SB 12-94 "do pass." The clerk recorded the committee recommendation and the bill was advanced in the House process.
Why it matters The exchange raises questions about local notification and the state's authority to lease property to federal entities at a nominal rate; Representative Gutierrez urged lawmakers to consult the town of Marana and to protect local interests before approving the measure.
Outcome The Committee of the Whole reported SB 12-94 as "do pass" and the recommendation was entered into the House journal. Representative Gutierrez's remarks were recorded as a floor comment in opposition to the move.
