Controversial ‘Axon Bill’ Creates Divisions, Unexpected Alliances

In a move stirring significant debate, the Arizona Legislature passed Senate Bill 1543, commonly called the “Axon Bill.” This legislation facilitates the development of Axon’s proposed headquarters in Scottsdale by overriding a scheduled public referendum on the project. Axon is one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of military and law enforcement technologies and weapons. The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Katie Hobbs.

The bill, sponsored by Senate Majority Whip Frank Carroll (R-LD28), passed the Senate with a 17-13 vote and the House with a 40-19 vote, reflecting a surprising mix of bipartisan support and opposition. During the Senate’s recent deliberations, legislators expressed a wide range of opinions reflecting the bill’s contentious nature. The Arizona Globe first reported on the controversial bill on March 31, 2025.

Senator Vince Leach (R-LD17) emphasized the importance of retaining Axon in Arizona, stating, “If they leave, I guarantee you it will be very difficult to start building back that reputation… our tax program and, yes, in fact, our school system.”

Senator Brian Fernandez (D-LD13) highlighted the economic benefits, noting, “It’s about keeping high-paying, future-focused jobs right here, growing our economy and showing the world that Arizona is a place where innovation thrives.”

Conversely, Senator John Kavanagh (R-LD3) criticized the bill, asserting, “An election has actually been called and has actually been scheduled… A vote for this bill will cancel that election. That’s not theoretical, that’s actual. So this is voter suppression on steroids.”

Senator Lauren Kuby (D-LD8) drew an example from past city projects, stating, “It’s not about apartments. It’s not about how we grow our cities. It is about the will of the voters… And how can we take away the expressed will of the Scottsdale voters who want to vote on this.”

Scottsdale Councilman Barry Graham sent a letter to Arizona senators urging them not to pass the legislation, stating that SB1543 “disenfranchises Arizonans, it attacks local planning, and it’s unconstitutional.”

Governor Hobbs has not publicly indicated her stance on the bill. Her spokesperson noted that the governor is “committed to keeping and bringing in businesses that create jobs and boost our economy.” Hobbs tipped her hand in a radio interview, and although she said she was still “considering the bill,” she seemed favorable towards it.

If signed into law, SB 1543 would set a precedent, allowing state intervention and control over local zoning decisions, particularly for large-scale developments. Opponents are already considering legal challenges, citing concerns over the bill’s constitutionality and its implications for voter rights.

Earlier in the week, Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky released a news release that said she was looking “at all legal options.”

Turning Point Action, the state’s most prominent conservative organization, lobbied against the Axon Bill.

When I die I want Arizona Republican legislators to be my pallbearers, just so they can let me down one last time. https://t.co/2Uk4aVaKeN

— Lacey Nagao (@lacenagao) April 15, 2025

The Arizona Chamber of Commerce said, “This is a big win.”

🚨 Big win for Arizona: SB 1543 is headed to the governor’s desk!

This bill supports smart growth by giving companies developing international HQs the flexibility to build on-site housing and services that support their workforce—helping retain talent, ease housing pressures,… pic.twitter.com/PHxgEXShzK

— Arizona Chamber (@AZChamber) April 15, 2025