I officially started my job as State Representative on January 12, 2009.
I am:
Vice Chairman on the Ways and Means Committee (which sets tax policy). I’m a fiscal conservative, which means I want to keep taxes low, so that you can keep more money in your pocket.
Member on the Public Employees, Retirement and Entitlement Reform Committee
Member of the Ethics Committee
Please read below about what I’ve done in the last few weeks.
Did you know that Banner Thunderbird Hospital is adding 200 new beds to it’s facility? On December 23rd, I met with Tom Dickson, CEO of Banner Thunderbird Hospital for a tour of the hospital and an explanation of their expansion.
On December 18th, I joined two other new legislators for a presentation on SRP’s supply of water and electricity to the valley. After the presentation, we toured by air the Verde and Salt Rivers, plus various dams and lakes via helicopter.
Note: No taxpayer money was used for this tour.
On December 17th, I joined City of Glendale Neighborhood Leaders from throughout Glendale at the Glendale Adult Center. I have been a City of Glendale Neighborhood Leader for my neighborhood for many years.
On December 16th, I joined several other new legislators for a presentation by DPS officials and an ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) official. We also toured the crime lab facility.
Did you know that Yuma, Arizona supplies 90-95% of all the lettuce consumed by the United States in the winter months? On December 11th and 12th, I joined several other legislators on a bus trip to Yuma, Arizona. We were given presentations on water resources, cattle ranching, and vegetable growing. We toured one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States; a lettuce field; the Dole salad packaging plant; and a Citrus packaging plant.
Note: No taxpayer money was used for this trip.
On Dec. 9th and 10th, I joined other new legislators in a two day crash course which included mock committee hearings, an overview on how to introduce legislation, and an introduction to legislative staff.
In early December, I joined State Legislators from throughout the United States for an intensive workshop on forming legislation. Speakers shared model legislation that worked in their states. After a long day, I was able to visit the World War II Memorial.
Note: No taxpayer money was used for this trip.