Tucson will be allowed to hold an election early, despite conflict with state law
Arizona’s attorney general determined on Monday that Tucson can hold an election in the summer, despite a state law that suggests such issues must be decided in the fall.
The Tucson City Council wants citizens to vote this summer on a potential sales tax, but state law dictates that elections to approve transaction privilege taxes should take place in the November general election.
State Sen. Rosanna Gabaldón says the city asked her to take the matter to the attorney general, Kris Mayes.
The AG’s opinion, states that despite the “conflict” with the law, because this is a municipal issue, the charter city’s decision prevails.
“I am grateful to Sen. Gabaldón and to Attorney General Kris Mayes for their work to get us a legal opinion,” Tucson Mayor Regina Romero said in a statement.
Tucson City Manager Andy Squire said the mayor and council can add this as a topic of discussion in a future meeting if they choose to go forward. July 30 would be the earliest an election can occur.
