1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

I need you to veto HB2167 when it reaches your desk. This bill, sponsored by Representative Lupe Diaz, would strip the attorney general of her authority to file public nuisance actions or penalize her for doing so. It's a direct attack on communities fighting unwanted industrial projects. Benson residents are currently suing to stop an aluminum smelting plant from being built in the middle of their community. They've asked Attorney General Mayes to intervene using nuisance law, the same legal tool she successfully used against Fondomonte when that Saudi company drained Arizona groundwater. AG Mayes has stated that nuisance law is the strongest tool available to help Benson residents protect their community. HB2167 would tie the attorney general's hands right when Benson needs her most. Representative Diaz supports the smelting plant, and this bill looks like a transparent attempt to help industry override local opposition. Communities deserve the right to fight back when corporations threaten their health and quality of life. The attorney general should have every legal tool available to represent Arizonans against public nuisances, not face penalties for doing her job. Veto this bill and stand with communities over corporate interests.