House approves measure allowing Maricopa County to seek voter approval to extend jail excise tax

The Arizona House passed Senate Bill 11-44 on third reading, 45-12, clearing language that allows Maricopa County to submit to voters an extension of a county excise tax to fund jails and related law-enforcement costs.

Supporters framed the measure as an extension — not a new tax — to support sheriff's deputies and jail staff. Representative Pamela Carter explained, "This is not a new tax ... it is just an extension for our jails and our officers," and said the revenue supports salaries for deputies and jailers. Representative Grama urged that the measure gives Maricopa County voters authority to decide whether to continue the tax, referencing the sheriff's staffing shortfall reported by Sheriff Sheridan.

Opponents disputed the framing as an extension and criticized the chamber for approving measures that increase government revenue. Representative Culligan said voters "did not send us down here to tax them more" and described the measure as effectively imposing more costs on residents; she recorded a no vote.

The House clerk recorded the final tally as 45 ayes, 12 nays, 3 not voting; the clerk was instructed to convey the bill to the Senate. The bill was described on the floor as amending section 16-193, Arizona Revised Statutes, and as part of Title 42, Chapter 6, Article 3, relating to county excise taxes.

With passage in the House, the bill moves to the Senate. Lawmakers on both sides emphasized voter decision-making and local public-safety staffing needs in explaining their votes.