AZ HB2242

Amends Section 41-2954 of Arizona Revised Statutes to allow standing committees to appoint persons to fill vacancies on committees of reference by filing a letter with the secretary of the senate or chief clerk of the house of representatives.

Committees of reference consist of five-member subcommittees appointed jointly by standing committees of both legislative houses in their respective subject matter areas, with no more than three appointees from each house of the same political party.

Maintains existing requirements for committees of reference to hold public hearings, receive testimony from affected agencies and the public, and deliver final sunset review reports with recommendations for agency continuation, revision, consolidation, or termination by December 1.

Clarifies that committees of reference must consider multiple factors when determining agency necessity, including statutory objectives, operational efficiency, public service scope, rule consistency, complaint resolution, and impacts on public health and safety.

Confirms committees of reference retain legislative subpoena powers under Arizona law.