Arizona Senate Passes Bill That Fines Operators Of 'Party Houses'

Published: Tuesday, May 7, 2019 - 9:39am
Updated: Tuesday, May 7, 2019 - 9:41am
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Julie Levin/KJZZ
Arizona State Senate building.

Some Arizona legislators want to crack down on rental homes that hold special events.

The legislation which began as House Bill 2672 and passed the Arizona Senate on Monday would ban operators of vacation and short-term rental homes from holding special events that would otherwise require a license.

Citing complaints from a constituent who is a teacher, Sen. Kate Brophy McGee, R-Phoenix, said the bill is necessary to curb enthusiasm for unruly behavior and loud parties in residential neighborhoods. “We have naked men jumping off the roof of the house into the pool and we have car loads of hookers who come and go all day and all night,” said McGee who quoted her constituent.

Some members of McGee’s party, however, say the $500 fine that would be levied on an operator of the homes is egregious.

Sen. Sylvia Allen, R-Snowflake, said she disagrees with such a steep penalty.

“I just cannot support the fines and the penalties which are very excessive compared to what any city would charge," said Allen.

The bill moves back to the House for another vote.

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