The rebate, which sends up to $750 back to Arizona taxpayers, was specifically designed to prevent her from claiming credit.
Governor Kathleen Marie Hobbs is taking credit for a $260 million tax rebate to families, even though she initially opposed it being included in the budget
Despite this, Governor Kathleen Marie Hobbs released a press statement on Tuesday, proudly declaring, “Governor Hobbs puts money back into Arizonan’s pockets,” accompanied by a video message.
Sen. Jake Hoffman who proposed the rebate, acknowledged that the governor’s actions appear to bypass legal restrictions. However, he raised concerns about the Department of Revenue sending a letter to eligible recipients directing them to the governor’s website for more information, which he argues violates state law.
The rebate was a result of a $2 billion surplus in state budget projections, leading to a $17.8 billion budget with various one-time programs. While Governor Kathleen Marie Hobbs and Democrats secured funding for public schools and the Housing Trust Fund, Republican lawmakers allocated funds for a range of projects.
The rebate, benefiting nearly 750,000 families, was originally intended to prevent Governor Kathleen Marie Hobbs from claiming credit
The law explicitly stated that no communication about the rebate should bear reference to the governor’s office. However, a letter signed by her chosen agency director, Rob Woods, mentions the rebate as a result of the 2023 bipartisan budget.
While Governor Kathleen Marie Hobbs initially advocated for a different child tax credit, she now asserts her right to claim credit for the rebate. The likelihood of future rebates remains uncertain due to budget deficits projected for the upcoming fiscal years. Eligible recipients need not apply, as the Department of Revenue will determine entitlement.
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