STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – House Concurrent Resolution 2048, sponsored by State Representative Michael Way, passed the House Government Committee on Wednesday and now heads to the full Arizona House of Representatives.

HCR 2048 is a constitutional measure that would prohibit salary increases for elected state officers from taking effect during their current term and would require legislators, the Governor, and statewide executive officers to forgo regular salaries and subsistence payments if the general appropriation bill is not signed into law by April 30.

Compensation withheld during a budget delay would not be paid retroactively. Salaries would resume with the first full pay period after the budget becomes law.

“If we do not pass a budget on time, we should not get paid. It is that simple,” said Representative Way. “Arizonans are expected to meet deadlines in their jobs. Lawmakers should be held to that same standard. If we fail to finish the budget by April 30, there should be consequences.”

The resolution complements House Concurrent Resolution 2005, introduced by Representative Justin Wilmeth, which would require the Legislature to adjourn its regular session by April 30.

“Deadlines matter,” Representative Way said. “Families and businesses across Arizona operate on them every day. State government should do the same.”

If approved by the full Legislature, HCR 2048 will be referred to voters at the next general election.

Michael Way is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 15, which includes Mesa and Queen Creek in Maricopa County, and San Tan Valley in Pinal County. Follow him on X at @MichaelWayAZ.