Legislation sponsored by Mark Finchem would require Arizona state agencies to identify and eliminate long-vacant government positions, a move aimed at increasing transparency and reducing inefficiencies in state government.
Senate Bill 1056 updates Arizona law to strengthen workforce reporting requirements and address full-time equivalent (FTE) positions that have remained unfilled for extended periods. Under the bill, the Arizona Department of Administration would be required to include in its annual workforce report a list of budgeted positions that have been vacant for 150 days or longer.
The legislation also directs most state agencies to eliminate positions that remain vacant beyond that threshold, with the agency’s authorized staffing level permanently adjusted to reflect the change.
SB 1056 applies broadly to state agencies, boards, and commissions that receive or expend state funds, while exempting certain public safety, corrections, and higher-education entities. The exemptions are designed to preserve flexibility in mission-critical operations.
Supporters of the bill say the measure promotes fiscal responsibility by preventing agencies from retaining unused positions year after year, a practice that can obscure staffing realities and inflate agency budgets.
If enacted, the bill would be implemented as part of Arizona’s annual workforce reporting and budget oversight process.
More information: https://www.billtrack50.com/billdetail/1919278