Senate Republicans Move Transportation Package Improving Safety, Infrastructure, Next-Generation Mobility
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 26, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate Republicans are pushing forward measures to modernize Arizona's transportation systems, improve roadway safety, and support emerging mobility technologies.
This week, the Senate approved SB 1024, sponsored by Senate Appropriations, Transportation, & Technology Committee Chair David Farnsworth, which establishes vehicle registration, licensing compatibility, and license plate requirements for roadable aircraft—vehicles capable of operating on roads and in the air. The measure integrates existing federal aviation registration with Arizona vehicle laws so roadable aircraft can legally operate on public roadways.
"Arizona is at the forefront of emerging transportation technologies, and we need clear rules to encourage innovation while maintaining safety," said Senator Farnsworth. "This bill paves the way for advanced mobility solutions that could transform how Arizonans travel."
The Senate also approved SB 1059, sponsored by Senator Wendy Rogers, appropriating $9.2 million from the general fund for planning, design, construction, and necessary right-of-way acquisition for a dedicated right-turn lane at the SR 87 and SR 260 intersection to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.
"This busy junction in Payson serves as the main gateway for folks from the Valley heading up to the Mogollon Rim and mountains for weekend getaways—think families loading up for cabins, lakes, or hiking in the cooler high country," said Senator Rogers. "On busy weekends, especially Fridays northbound and Sundays southbound, traffic often backs up bumper-to-bumper as thousands escape the heat for recreation. This targeted improvement will help ease those bottlenecks and make drives safer for everyone relying on these routes."
Finally, the Senate approved SB 1624, sponsored by Senator David Gowan, which caps civil penalties for photo enforcement violations at $75, prohibits license suspension or insurance rate increases based solely on those violations, and clarifies that recipients are not required to respond to mailed notices before formal service.
"Photo radar should promote safety, not function as an automatic revenue stream.," said Senator Gowan. "This reform restores fairness by limiting excessive penalties while protecting drivers from insurance or licensing consequences tied to automated citations."
Together, these bills advance new transportation technologies, deliver targeted safety improvements, and invest in practical infrastructure upgrades across Arizona.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus