Driver's licenses, Clinical trials, Public lobbyists
Forty-sixth Legislature - Second Regular Session

2/25/04

Driver's licenses

The House voted 40-16 Tuesday to prohibit Arizona from issuing a driver's license automatically to someone who comes from a state that does not require proof of legal residency to drive.

Arizona law mandates some showing of citizenship or right to be here to get a license. But the state routinely permits those licensed elsewhere to get a license without proof.

Backers of HB 2355 said that needs to stop. Similar legislation is pending in the Senate.

Separately, the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Transportation defeated SB 1281, which would have reversed current law and permitted people not here legally to get driver's licenses if they pass a background check.

Clinical trials

The House voted Tuesday to let doctors accept a referral fee from drug companies for identifying patients to participate in clinical tests of new drugs.

Current law lets drug companies pay doctors for the cost of monitoring a patient. But it is illegal to accept referral fees.

Rep. Ted Downing, D-Tucson, said he has no problem with the concept. But Downing said state law also should spell out that doctors are required to provide more information to patients.

The measure, HB 2180, now goes to the Senate.

Public lobbyists

Lawmakers refused Tuesday to make it illegal for public agencies and officials to lobby.

Sen. Mark Anderson, R-Mesa, said it is wrong to use tax dollars to persuade lawmakers to change laws or spend new money.

But Senate Government Committee members said they often need information from state and local agencies.