GOP state senator responds to Gov. Hobbs’ veto of critical race theory bill

TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) - Today, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed a controversial “critical race theory” bill.

Senate Bill 1305 would have banned K-12 schools from teaching “critical race theory” and threatened a $5,000 fine per violation.

In announcing the veto... Governor Hobbs said “It is time to stop pushing students and teachers into cultural wars based on fearmongering and evidence-free accusation.”

She went on to say “I urge the Legislature to work with me on the real issues affecting Arizona schools: underfunded classrooms, a growing educator retention crisis,

and school buildings in need of repair and replacement.”

The bill was sponsored by Senator J.D. Mesnard.

He responded to the governor’s veto by saying “I’m deeply disheartened by Governor Hobbs’ choice to condone these discriminatory teachings our kids are being exposed to, by vetoing my bill. As lawmakers, we are called to protect the vulnerable, including impressionable and innocent kids. Her action today is a slap in the face to parents who came forward with serious concerns about the racism being taught in their children’s classrooms.”

Arizona Education Association President Marisol Garcia responded to the governor’s action by saying “SB1305 would have subjected teachers to investigations, disciplinary action and even thousands of dollars in fines just for teaching the truth. Endless attacks like SB1305 are part of the reason that so many Arizona schools struggle to retain qualified, passionate educators. We’re glad that Governor Hobbs vetoed SB1305, and we look forward to working with her to ensure that our schools are fully funded and our students and educators have what they need to thrive.”

Gov. Hobbs letter to lawmakers about CRT bill by KOLD News 13 on Scribd