The proposed bill would significantly update current statutes regarding the acquisition of privately owned real property in Arizona by the federal government. Under A.R.S. § 37-620.02, the state can only consent to such acquisitions with the Governor's signature on a joint resolution from the Legislature. The bill would enhance this requirement by stipulating that the Governor's consent must be accompanied by an affirmative vote from a majority of the Legislature. It would also establish a right of first refusal for the state to purchase private real property not approved for federal acquisition, thereby increasing state control over property transactions. Additionally, the bill would expand the responsibilities of the State Land Department (SLD) to maintain a catalog of all federal designations in Arizona, not just national monuments, and would require notification to legislative leaders if a parcel is not confined to the smallest area necessary for protection. New reporting requirements for escrow agents and private property owners involved in federal transactions would be introduced, along with civil penalties for non-compliance. The bill would also amend the chapter heading of title 37, chapter 4, to reflect a broader scope of government entities involved in property acquisition and establish a legislative committee to review property transfer requests, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Arizona's tax base and asserting state rights over land management.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-485, 37-620.02