
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has unveiled a new budget proposal that has drawn criticism for failing to address key state issues including water security and the housing crisis. Despite her campaign promises and statements made in her 2025 State of the State address, the proposed budget does not allocate funds for water projects such as long-term water augmentation or rural water supply development. According to a press release published by the Arizona House Republicans, Representative Gail Griffin, Chair of the House Natural Resources, Energy & Water Committee, criticized the Governor's budget, saying, "As usual, the Governor talks a big game on water but does little to prioritize the solutions that matter," as per release on the official Arizona Legislature website.
Alongside water security, housing remains a pressing matter the Governor's budget seems to inadequately address. House Republicans have pointed out the absence of initiatives to increase the supply of for-sale housing, particularly in areas hit by rapid price surges following the Governor’s 2023 anti-housing moratorium. The budget instead appears to focus on projects such as historic preservation and fish hatcheries. "With Governor Hobbs’ latest proposal, it seems the Governor is more interested in building new homes for fish and birds than building new homes for hard-working Arizonans," Representative Griffin said, as stated by the Arizona State Legislature.
Griffin added, emphasizing the Republicans' position, "Arizona House Republicans are committed to advancing fiscally responsible solutions that address our critical housing and water supply issues, preserve the American Dream, and unleash economic prosperity in our state while protecting our individual rights and liberties," as reported by the Arizona State Legislature. The priorities of Arizona citizens, she stated, will be reflected in the ongoing budget negotiations and proposals. This aligns with her previous sentiments, highlighting the commitment of Arizona House Republicans to the state's needs. Her district, Legislative District 19, spans several counties including Greenlee, Graham, Cochise, and parts of Pima and Santa Cruz.