This bill proposes several updates to current statutes regarding the timely processing of licenses, approvals, and permits by cities, towns, and counties in Arizona. Under the new provisions, both cities and counties are explicitly prohibited from maliciously delaying responses to such applications, with a clear definition of "malicious" provided. This includes actions taken in bad faith or with the intent to obstruct, while excluding delays due to resource constraints or good faith errors. The attorney general, as well as county attorneys, would have the authority to enforce these provisions, and violations would incur a civil penalty of $5,000 per incident.

Additionally, the bill amends existing language to clarify that the state and its agencies are also subject to these same requirements regarding timely responses. The enforcement mechanisms and penalties remain consistent across all levels of government, ensuring that all entities are held accountable for any malicious delays. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the approval process and protect applicants from unjustified delays.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-500.54, 11-269.31, 41-710.04