ICYMI: Advocates Call for Ethics Investigation into Rep. Matt Gress for Prioritizing Interests of Out-of-State Lobbying Firm Over Arizonans
In Case You Missed It, public school advocates called for an ethics investigation into Rep. Matt Gress over allegations that his lobbying work in other states has influenced his work at the Arizona Legislature. Advocates specifically cite his work on HCR 2040, a measure Republican lawmakers sent to the ballot that would dismantle public sector unions and restrict public school teachers’ ability to engage in union activities.
Rep. Gress is a registered lobbyist in New Hampshire, Iowa, Indiana, and Arkansas for Americans for Fair Treatment, an Oklahoma nonprofit that advocates for anti-union legislation, and has supported laws weakening teachers' unions across the country.
KJZZ Phoenix:Public school advocates accuse Arizona Republican lawmaker of conflict of interest
According to his financial disclosure statement, Gress, a Phoenix Republican, works for Americans for Fair Treatment, an Oklahoma nonprofit that advocates for anti-union legislation and has supported laws weakening teachers' unions across the country.
The Arizona Agenda reported that Gress is registered as a lobbyist for the organization in New Hampshire, Iowa, Indiana and Arkansas.
Jacob Martinez, candidate for the Arizona legislature and vice president of the Save Our Schools Arizona Board of Directors, accused Gress of pushing “special interest legislation” tied to his employer. He pointed to HCR 2040, a measure Republican lawmakers sent to the ballot that would restrict public school teachers’ ability to engage in union activities.
“The connections are obvious,” said Denise Prevette, who said she lives in Gress’ district. “Matt Gress is lobbying on behalf of AFFT in his capacity as an elected official in Legislative District 4 and as House Education Committee chair.”
Martinez and Prevette called on the House Ethics Committee to investigate Gress over allegations he violated conflict-of-interest rules.