Budget Negotiations Stall at the Arizona Legislature While the State General Fund Experiences Large Surplus

April 19 marked the 100^th day of the legislative session, which is the statutory deadline for the legislature to adjourn sine die. Like most years, the legislature voted to extend the session. Although a few bills remain in play, the most prominent remaining issue is the fiscal year 2023 state budget. The state general fund has a substantial budget surplus with nearly $1.29 billion available for on-going spending and $2.8 billion in one-time spending. The additional revenues have resulted in prolonged negotiations as lawmakers debate whether the surplus should be used for new programs or to implement new tax cuts (most likely some combination of both). The University of Arizona’s state relations team continues to make progress with lawmakers in support of the university’s budget and policy priorities.