The proposed bill would update current statutes concerning school district budget override elections and bond issuance by introducing new requirements for ballot information. Specifically, the ballot must include the estimated average secondary property tax reduction that would occur if voters reject the budget override or bond proposal, along with the date when this reduction would begin. This aims to provide voters with a clearer understanding of the financial implications of their decisions. The bill also ensures that these requirements apply to both budget override continuation elections and bond issuance elections, thereby enhancing transparency regarding potential tax impacts. Additionally, the bill proposes updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes by clarifying the requirements for arguments submitted for and against proposed budget increases, including the necessity for sworn statements from submitters. It mandates that the county school superintendent review these arguments for factual accuracy and make them publicly available. The bill also establishes clearer guidelines for ballot language, requiring information on the proposed budget increase, its impact on future revenue control limits, and estimated tax rate reductions if the increases are not authorized. Overall, these changes aim to improve transparency and clarity in the school finance election process while ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-481, 15-491, 15-949, 16-204, 15-905, 42-12003, 42-12001, 15-422, 15-423, 15-424, 15-426, 15-403, 15-947, 15-482, 15-971, 15-447, 15-342, 15-493, 15-401, 15-402
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-481, 15-491, 15-949, 16-204, 15-905, 42-12003, 42-12001, 15-422, 15-423, 15-424, 15-426, 15-403, 15-947, 15-482, 15-971, 15-447, 15-342, 15-493, 15-401, 15-402