Journalists’ Roundtable: Democrats sue No Labels Party, possible fluoride ban and more

It’s Friday, which means it is time for another edition of Journalists’ Roundtable where we discuss Arizona politics. This week, “Arizona Horizon” host Ted Simons was joined by Wayne Schutsky of KJZZ, Jessica Boehm of AXIOS and Dennis Welch of AZ Family.

This weeks topics included:

Democrats file lawsuit against No Labels Party

The Democratic Party has filed a lawsuit to stop the political group formerly known as the No Labels Party from changing its name to the Arizona Independent Party. Democrats argue that Secretary of State Adrian Fontes lacks legal authority to approve the name change and that it could create voter confusion, harming future Democratic candidates.

Wayne Schutsky: “Voters in Arizona who want to be independent…could be confused if they see something that says Arizona Independent party, on registration people could go for that instead of the party that they want.”

New bill aims to ban fluoride in drinking water

Republican state legislator, Sen. Janae Shamp, has introduced a bill that may ban the use of fluoride in public drinking water systems statewide. The use of fluoride in drinking water has long been debated, with supporters claiming dental benefits and critics raising concerns about potential health effects. If the bill advances, it will go to Gov. Katie Hobbs, who will decide whether to sign it into law or veto it.

Speed limit for bikes and scooters

Lawmakers are considering setting speed limits for electric bikes and scooters. The proposal would regulate how fast these devices can travel on roads, bike lanes and sidewalks. Supporters say speed limits could improve pedestrian safety, while opponents argue the rules could be difficult to enforce.

Pay raise and new term limits for lawmakers

A new proposal would raise salaries for state legislators and establish new term limits. Supporters argue higher pay could attract a broader range of candidates. Critics question the timing of a pay increase and warn that changes to term limits could reduce experience.

Revised teaching standards exclude DEI

Arizona education officials are moving to strip language related to diversity, equity and inclusion from state teaching standards. The State Board of Education and the Arizona Department of Education are beginning a formal process to review classroom learning standards to remove references to DEI, partly a result of the federal push to remove this type of language.