The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding administrative law judges in Arizona by granting parties involved in contested cases or appealable agency actions one peremptory change of administrative law judge. This change would allow parties to request a new judge without needing to provide a reason. Additionally, the bill expands the grounds for filing a nonperemptory motion to disqualify an administrative law judge by including conflicts of interest and being a material witness in the action, alongside the existing reasons of bias, prejudice, personal interest, or lack of necessary technical expertise.

Furthermore, the bill makes several technical changes to the language of the current law, including replacing the term "may" with "shall" to clarify the authority of parties to file motions. It also modifies the language regarding the administrative law judge's ability to allow depositions and subpoenas, ensuring that these processes are clearly defined and permitted under specific conditions. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the fairness and efficiency of administrative hearings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1092.07
House Engrossed Version: 41-1001, 41-1092.07, 41-1092, 41-1011, 41-1026, 41-1005, 41-1052, 41-1053, 41-1044, 41-1027
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-1092.07
Chaptered Version: 41-1092.07