Grand Canyon Times

Senator T.J. Shope has been appointed as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources for the 57th Legislature, according to an announcement by Senate President Warren Petersen. In this role, Senator Shope will oversee negotiations for Arizona's entry into the post-2026 Colorado River Operation agreement.

The Hobbs Administration has faced criticism for its handling of housing affordability and water conservation issues. The administration is accused of being influenced by environmental, city, utility, and tribal interests that dominate Arizona's water supply. Legislative efforts to address these issues have reportedly been thwarted by vetoes from Governor Hobbs. Specifically, a previously negotiated "Ag-to-Urban Conservation Program" was abandoned, excluding Pinal County after discussions involving legislative Democrats and the administration.

President Petersen stated, "As the sponsor of the Ag-to-Urban Conservation Program, Chairman Shope intimately understands that Arizona has the ability to conserve water while increasing housing affordability in both Maricopa and Pinal counties. These two areas have been the targets of the Governor's anti-growth agenda." He emphasized that if housing affordability continues to be inadequately addressed in Colorado River negotiations, Senator Shope will lead legislative efforts to protect Arizonans' interests.

Chairman Shope commented on his new role: "In representing Pinal County, I understand the importance of agriculture and homebuilding to Arizona's economy. The Ag-to-Urban Conservation Program would have allowed these two important sectors to work together to increase housing supply while conserving water, but Governor Hobbs elected to stand in the way." He expressed gratitude for being entrusted with responsibilities aimed at enhancing Arizona's water security and boosting housing affordability.