More than three-dozen members of the legislature including Tucson Representative Frank Antenori (R-Tucson) and Tucson Senator Al Melvin (R-Tucson) are sponsoring the proposal. The bill adds a line to the state income tax form, which allows people to contribute money to the budget General Fund. The idea is not a new one. In 2001, Arkansas passed a similar law and since that time has collected $2,419.79. Since then seven other states have passed similar legislation. Virginia passed the law in 2002 and has collected $10,217.04.
In the bill’s first committee hearing, it passed with little discussion on a 6-2 vote. Tucson Representative Steve Farley voted against the proposal.
Update
On February 23, 2010 the full House voted on HB 2001. It passed on 35-22 vote, three members did not vote.
Pima County House Delegation Vote:
Frank Antenori (R) – Yes
David Bradley (D) – Did Not Vote
Olivia Cajero Bedford (D) – No
Steve Farley (D) – No
David Gowan (R) – Yes
Matt Heinz (D) – No
Phil Lopes (D) – No
Daniel Patterson (D) – No
Vic Williams (R) – Yes
Nancy Young Wright (N) – No
Update
On April 19, 2010 the full Senate passed HB 2001 on a 17-11 vote
Pima County Senate Delegation Vote
Paula Aboud (D) – No
Frank Antenori (R) – Yes
Jorge Luis Garcia (D) – No
Linda Lopez (D) – No
Al Melvin (R) – Yes
On April 20, 2010 the bill was sent to Governor Jan Brewer.
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