This bill proposes updates to section 41-1033 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically enhancing the process for individuals to petition the council regarding agency practices and policies. The bill introduces an additional criterion for petitions, allowing individuals to challenge practices that “violate a person's fundamental legal rights.” Furthermore, it modifies the procedural requirements for the council's review process by removing the need for at least three council members to request a hearing, instead mandating that the matter “shall” be heard in a public meeting once a petition is received. Additionally, the bill streamlines the timeline for the council's actions by replacing the previous requirement of notifying the agency within ten days of a request with a more straightforward process that begins upon receipt of the petition. The council will now have “not later than thirty days” to receive a response from the agency, which must address whether the agency's actions exceed its statutory authority or do not meet established guidelines. Overall, these changes aim to enhance transparency and accountability in agency rulemaking and ensure that individual rights are better protected.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1033