Grand Canyon Times

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has made headlines by becoming the first governor in the nation to block a bill aimed at removing zoning restrictions to bring housing prices down for hardworking citizens. The vetoed legislation, known as the Arizona Starter Homes Act, was intended to address the skyrocketing housing costs in Arizona.

The veto comes at a time when the median home sale price in Arizona has surged by more than 50% since January 2020, reaching a staggering $430,000. The state is facing a severe shortage of approximately 270,000 housing units, contributing significantly to the escalating prices.

The Arizona Starter Homes Act, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Sonny Borrelli and House Majority Leader Leo Biasiucci, sought to prevent cities and towns from imposing costly amenities on homebuyers and mandating the formation of homeowners associations. The bill aimed to provide more choices to buyers regarding the aesthetic features and lot sizes of homes, ultimately making starter homes more affordable.

In response to Governor Hobbs' veto, Senate President Warren Petersen expressed disappointment, stating, "Our kids can't afford a home. Today, the Governor sided with bureaucrats, instead of our kids. Thanks to her, affordable starter homes remain illegal in Arizona." Petersen emphasized the impact on various groups, including active-duty military, veterans, young families, professionals, and service workers, who are struggling to afford homes due to inflated prices influenced by government regulations.

The veto has sparked criticism from proponents of the bill, with Petersen highlighting the bipartisan support the legislation received. The Senate President criticized the Governor for vetoing a measure that could have provided much-needed relief to individuals facing housing challenges in the state.

For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus

kquintero@azleg.gov