A measure that would rein in the powers of the Arizona governor to maintain emergency declarations is one vote away from being sent to the 2024 ballot.
The bill would require monthly legislative approval for any emergency declaration.
The move is rooted in the state of emergency called by former Gov. Doug Ducey in early 2020 at the start of the coronavirus pandemic.
Proponents say the Legislature has a duty to review declarations, which are most often issued after floods and wildfires.
Opponents say the proposal would bring partisan politics into the process, which could hinder the system.
Currently, there are 41 open state declarations in force.
One such was issued for drought in 1999.
