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Phoenix

Lawsuit Challenges Arizona Employer Sanctions Law

7.17.07

A lawsuit seeking to block the HB 2779 from taking effect was filed on Friday by Arizona Employers for Immigration Reform and the Arizona Contractors Association in U.S. District Court in Phoenix.

The complaint contends among other things that enforcing immigration is a federal, not a state, responsibility, and that the law violates the due process rights of business owners. The suit names Gov. Janet Napolitano and Attorney General Terry Goddard as defendants. 

Arizona's new get-tough employer-sanctions law, which threatens to yank business licenses of companies that hire undocumented workers, is set to go into effect on January 1, 2008, unless the court intervenes.

For more information, contact WG’s AnnaMarie Knorr (aknorr@wga.com) at (602) 266-6149.

Napolitano Vetoes Railroad Accountability Bill

7.3.07
Unfortunately, Governor Napolitano vetoed HB 2020 yesterday, presenting a huge blow to growers in Yuma and supporters of private property rights.  Western Growers, along with various farmers and business owners across the state, supported this measure sponsored by Rep. Jonathon Paton because it provided for accountability and public oversight in rail expansion projects by providing additional tools for land owners facing massive rail expansion and threats of eminent domain takings.  The legislation would have authorized the Arizona Corporation Commission to review any new rail infrastructure plans within the state.  Although federal preemption precludes the ACC from stopping the railroad entirely, the measure would have allowed the ACC to require additional assessments of environmental and economic impacts as well as hold public hearings to gather additional information.  WG is disappointed in the veto because this bill would’ve provided much needed accountability and public involvement in future rail projects. 

For more information, contact AnnaMarie Knorr (aknorr@wga.com) or 602-266-6149.

Arizona Raises Cost Of FPCs

6.26.07

Effective July 1, 2007 the fee for Federal Phytosanitary Certificates (FPCs) issued by the Arizona Department of Agriculture Plant Services Division will increase to $36.  FPCs that were purchased in advance of this date will need to be assessed the fee difference before the certificate is issued.

For more information, please contact WG’s AnnaMarie Knorr (aknorr@wga.com) at (602) 266-6149.