Arizona lawmakers are advancing SB1148, legislation sponsored by Senator Mark Finchem to restore attorney licensing authority to the Arizona Supreme Court and reinforce constitutional separation of powers.
SB1148 transfers responsibility for attorney licensing away from the State Bar and places it directly under the authority of the Arizona Supreme Court, ensuring that the regulation of legal professionals is exercised by the judiciary as intended under Arizona’s constitutional framework.
The legislation strengthens oversight of the legal profession by aligning licensing authority with the branch of government responsible for administering justice. It reinforces professional standards while ensuring greater accountability in how attorneys are licensed and regulated.
Senator Finchem introduced SB1148 as part of his broader effort to restore constitutional governance, uphold separation of powers, and ensure the legal system operates with transparency and integrity.
The bill advanced through the House Committee of the Whole with a Do Pass recommendation on April 2, continuing its progress toward final passage.
News coverage: https://www.kjzz.org/politics/2026-04-02/gop-lawmakers-hope-to-move-lawyer-licensing-duties-away-from-the-arizona-bar-again
Bill information: https://legiscan.com/AZ/bill/SB1148/2026