The passing of SB1399 would represent a significant intervention by the state to support communities grappling with the fallout of coal plant closures. The allocation of funds is aimed at facilitating economic stability and growth in areas that heavily relied on coal for employment and revenue. By exempting the appropriation from lapsing under existing laws, the bill ensures that these funds will be available to assist in the transition efforts without the usual financial constraints that might limit similar appropriations.
Summary
SB1399 is a bill introduced in the Arizona Senate aimed at addressing the economic impacts of coal plant closures. The bill proposes an appropriation of $60,000,000 from the state general fund for the fiscal year 2023-2024. The funds are designated to be distributed by the Department of Administration to various local governments, including counties, cities, towns, and Indian tribes. This appropriation is intended to provide economic transition resources to the communities affected by the closure of coal plants, which is part of a broader strategy to address the implications of transitioning away from fossil fuels toward more sustainable energy sources.
Contention
While the bill is framed as a necessary support for communities in transition, potential points of contention may arise regarding the effectiveness and allocation of the funds. Stakeholders may debate how these resources will be distributed and whether they will adequately meet the needs of the affected populations. Additionally, there may be discussions about potential delays in the release of funds or concerns that the amounts appropriated may not be sufficient to cover the long-term economic impacts felt by these communities.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.