This bill proposes significant updates to current statutes concerning school district budget override and bond election ballots. Under the new provisions, ballots for budget override elections must include a statement detailing the estimated average secondary property tax reduction if the override is not authorized, along with the date this reduction would begin. This requirement extends to school districts that previously operated under a small school adjustment. Similarly, ballots for bond elections must also include a statement about the estimated average secondary property tax reduction without bond authorization and the date this reduction would start. These changes aim to provide voters with clearer financial implications of their decisions. Additionally, the bill introduces updates to the submission process for arguments related to budget increases. It requires that all arguments be accompanied by sworn statements and mandates the county school superintendent to review factual statements, while opinions remain unchanged. The bill also requires school districts to submit proposed ballot language to the Arizona legislative council for review at least eighty-five days before an election. Furthermore, it clarifies the conditions under which school districts can adopt budgets exceeding general limits, including the maximum amounts and necessary statements on ballots. Overall, these updates enhance transparency and accountability in school finance elections.

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