The Arizona House of Representatives has passed SB1543, known as the “Axon Bill,” a bill which would prevent a voter referendum in Scottsdale. This would effectively allow Axon Enterprise to proceed with its proposed headquarters and housing development without direct voter input. The legislation, which passed with a 40-19 vote, has drawn criticism from some Scottsdale representatives who argue it undermines local democratic processes.
Local Opposition to the “Axon Bill”
In November 2024, the Scottsdale City Council approved Axon’s plan to build a new headquarters near Hayden Road and Loop 101, including nearly 1,900 apartments and a hotel. Opponents of the project gathered over 27,000 signatures to force a referendum, aiming to let voters decide on the rezoning decision.
Despite the successful petition, the new bill seeks to reclassify rezoning decisions as administrative actions, thereby removing them from the referendum process. Proponents argue this change is necessary to prevent special interest groups from obstructing development projects that could bring significant economic benefits. Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky opposes the bill.
Scottsdale representatives Joseph Chaplik, Alexander Kolodin, Pamela Carter, and Matt Gress have voiced strong opposition to the “Axon Bill.” Chaplik, the chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, has been particularly vocal about preserving the rights of citizens to challenge local government decisions through referendums. This combination of representatives is notable as it consists of both Freedom Caucus members (Kolodin and Chaplik) alongside two of the more “moderate” House Republicans: Carter and Gress.
The bill now moves to the Arizona Senate for consideration. Its outcome could set a precedent for how local zoning decisions are handled statewide, potentially limiting the ability of residents to influence developments in their communities. Senate President Warren Petersen will decide the upcoming fate of SB1543. If it passes through the Arizona State Senate, the bill will then proceed to Katie Hobbs’ desk where she will have the final say.
Photo from Axon’s website.