House and Senate Republicans in Arizona announced on March 19 that they are moving forward with legislation to repeal the state law recognizing Cesar Chavez Day, following recent reports detailing allegations of sexual assaults by Chavez against women and children.
The move comes as lawmakers say the state should not continue to honor an individual accused of such conduct. The proposed repeal will proceed through a strike-everything amendment sponsored by Senator Shawnna Bolick to House Bill 2072, which was introduced by Representative Lisa Fink. Senator Bolick is scheduled to present the amendment in her Senate Regulatory Affairs and Government Efficiency Committee next week.
“We are not going to keep honoring a man who committed sexual abuse against children and assaulted women. That should not be controversial,” House Speaker Steve Montenegro said. “If even the Governor is stepping back from recognizing Cesar Chavez this year, then the Legislature needs to finish the job. Looking the other way is not leadership.”
Representative Fink said, “This is about what our laws say and what they stand for. As long as this remains in statute, Arizona is still honoring that conduct. Repealing it is the right and responsible step, and it sends a clear message that we stand with victims.”
Senate President Warren Petersen added, “The conduct described is heinous, and it demands a clear and immediate response. Protecting children and holding predators accountable is a fundamental responsibility of government. Arizona law should never be used to honor someone tied to that kind of harm. This should receive unanimous, bipartisan support. Anything less would be a failure to stand with victims and uphold the basic duty to protect the vulnerable. There is no greater crime than one committed against a child.”
Senator Bolick said, “As someone who has worked to strengthen protections for victims and vulnerable populations, I take this seriously. We have to be consistent. We cannot say we stand with victims and then maintain laws that send a conflicting message. This is about ensuring Arizona law reflects a clear commitment to protecting victims and upholding accountability.” The Senate Committee on Regulatory Affairs & Government Efficiency will consider the amendment on Wednesday, March 25 at 9 a.m., according to the official roster page.
