Contributed Article/Courtesy Arizona State Legislature
PHOENIX – House and Senate Republicans are advancing legislation to repeal an Arizona law recognizing Cesar Chavez Day, following reports this week detailing Chavez’s sexual assaults against women and children.
The repeal will move forward through a strike-everything amendment sponsored by Senator Shawnna Bolick to HB 2072, a bill introduced by Representative Lisa Fink. Senator Bolick will hear the amendment in her Senate Regulatory Affairs and Government Efficiency Committee next week.
“We are not going to keep honoring a man who committed sexual abuse against children and assaulted women. That should not be controversial,” said House Speaker Steve Montenegro. “If even the Governor is stepping back from recognizing Cesar Chavez this year, then the Legislature needs to finish the job. Looking the other way is not leadership.”
“This is about what our laws say and what they stand for,” said Representative Fink. “As long as this remains in statute, Arizona is still honoring that conduct. Repealing it is the right and responsible step, and it sends a clear message that we stand with victims.”
“The conduct described is heinous, and it demands a clear and immediate response,” said President Warren Petersen. “Protecting children and holding predators accountable is a fundamental responsibility of government. Arizona law should never be used to honor someone tied to that kind of harm. This should receive unanimous, bipartisan support. Anything less would be a failure to stand with victims and uphold the basic duty to protect the vulnerable. There is no greater crime than one committed against a child.”
“As someone who has worked to strengthen protections for victims and vulnerable populations, I take this seriously,” said Senator Bolick. “We have to be consistent. We cannot say we stand with victims and then maintain laws that send a conflicting message. This is about ensuring Arizona law reflects a clear commitment to protecting victims and upholding accountability.”
The Senate Committee on Regulatory Affairs & Government Efficiency happens on Wednesday, March 25, at 9 a.m.
