Hearing set on proposal for Arizona sales-tax hike
Jul 2, 2012, 12:41 PM | Updated: 12:43 pm
PHOENIX — A judge has scheduled a July 18 hearing on a lawsuit challenging
a state official’s decision to keep a proposed sales-tax increase off Arizona’s
November ballot.
Supporters of the so-called “Quality Education and Jobs Act” are trying to
overturn Secretary of State Ken Bennett’s decision. He said a paperwork flaw
meant that the initiative campaign didn’t submit enough valid signatures.
Supporters contend that the measure should go on the ballot because an
electronic version had the correct text. A printed version
omitted some material.
The measure would increase the state sales tax by one cent. It would take
effect in 2013 when a temporary sales-tax increase expires.
The case is before Judge Robert Oberbillig of Maricopa County Superior Court.