Bipartisan HB 2306 proposes Apache County appropriation for rural routes

A bipartisan bill introduced in the Arizona House on Jan. 15, 2026 seeks to appropriate state funds specifically for rural routes in Apache County, a step that could shape local road maintenance and county fiscal planning. HB 2306 was filed on the opening day of the legislative session and received a House first reading before being assigned to Rules, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Appropriations committees.

The bill lists Representative Leo Biasiucci (R-30) as primary sponsor and Representative Myron Tsosie (D-6) as a cosponsor, signaling cross-party backing for a county-specific appropriation. The short description logged with the bill identifies its purpose plainly: appropriation; Apache County; rural routes. That designation suggests funding targeted at designated rural routes or county road programs rather than a broad statewide transportation package.

For Apache County residents, rural routes represent lifelines for ranching, commuting, school access, emergency services, and commerce. An appropriation directed at those routes could fund resurfacing, drainage repairs, winter maintenance, signage, or routine upkeep that smaller counties often struggle to cover within tight general-fund budgets. The scale and specific uses of any appropriation will depend on language and amendments introduced as the bill moves through committees.

Procedurally, assignment to Transportation and Infrastructure places HB 2306 in the committee best positioned to evaluate technical and operational aspects of road projects, while referral to Appropriations ensures fiscal scrutiny. Committee hearings are the next step; they will determine whether the measure advances to a House floor vote and whether funding levels or eligibility rules are altered. Interested parties can monitor the bill’s progress and review the introduced text on the Arizona Legislature’s bill overview (apps.azleg.gov/BillOverview/84042) and on the FastDemocracy tracking page.

Local officials and constituents should watch those committee agendas for hearing dates and potential amendments that clarify eligible projects, matching requirements, or timing for disbursement. County supervisors, public works directors, and tribal governments in Apache County may have opportunities to provide testimony or request language that aligns the appropriation with local needs.

As HB 2306 proceeds through Rules, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Appropriations, its impact will hinge on committee decisions and any changes made during the process. For residents, the practical question is whether this proposal becomes a reliable source of funding for maintenance and improvements on the county’s rural routes, and whether it arrives in time to address seasonal needs. Follow committee calendars and the official bill page for updates and chances to participate in the legislative process.