House committee of the whole advances criminal-sentencing and appropriations bills

PHOENIX — In a Committee of the Whole meeting Wednesday, the Arizona House advanced multiple Senate measures, with committee leaders reporting 'do pass' recommendations for bills covering criminal sentencing, appropriations and government matters.

Chairman Wynne moved that Senate Bill 1092 receive a 'do pass' recommendation; during discussion Wynne summarized a sentencing change in the bill, saying people convicted of dangerous crimes against children would no longer receive probation or early release. The committee approved the recommendation by voice vote.

Chairman Livingston reported that Senate Bill 1097 — described as the annual claimant bill for settling outstanding claims — received a 'do pass' recommendation from the Appropriations Committee and was advanced by the Committee of the Whole.

Chairman Blackman moved and the committee reported that Senate Bill 1135 from the Government Committee received a 'do pass' recommendation. After the Committee of the Whole rose and reported, the House adopted the committee report and referred SB 1092, SB 1097 and SB 1135 to engrossing.

Those committee recommendations will be reflected in the House journal and the measures were placed on the calendar. The House then resumed other business on the calendar and later adjourned until March 26.