Arizona lawmakers on Thursday seized an opportunity to increase positive economic activity for the state by passing Senate Bill 1543, taking a step closer to clearing the way for the proposed Axon international headquarters in Scottsdale.
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The project as envisioned promises to bring thousands of high-paying jobs, new housing, hospitality, and long-term growth to the region. The project has broad public support.
In spite of a lengthy opposition campaign, the bill cleared the state House Committee of the Whole on Wednesday and passed with bipartisan support today.
“The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry applauds the House for today’s passage,” Chamber Executive Vice President Courtney Coolidge said. “As we have said on multiple occasions, this is more about a single project in Scottsdale—this is about the future of the entire state, ensuring we send a message that Arizona is open for business and that out-of-state special interests won’t derail significant job-creation projects here.”
A recent statewide Cygnal poll found that 75% of likely voters support Axon building its headquarters in their own community. In Scottsdale, where the project is set to break ground, 65% of voters back the plan. This support crosses party lines, including strong majorities of Republicans, Independents, and Democrats.
Axon’s campus would be more than just a corporate office—it’s a dynamic mixed-use development with restaurants, a hotel, entertainment venues, and nearly 2,000 apartments. The projected economic impact is an impressive $38 billion over the next decade.
Once poll respondents were presented with these details, support jumped to 64% statewide and 60% in Scottsdale. Local opposition fell sharply to just 27%.
The legislation ensures that Arizona cities between 200,000 and 500,000 residents can’t block similar developments if they meet clear standards: at least 1,000 full-time jobs at above-average wages and a full campus plan that includes housing and hospitality.
Economic development and job creation advocates argue the bill is smart policy that welcomes innovation and strengthens Arizona’s competitive edge in attracting and retaining top employers.
Today’s passage sends the bill to the Senate for a final vote.
Despite attempts by a California-based union to overturn the city’s approval of the project through a referendum, a majority—63% in Scottsdale and 52% statewide—oppose the ballot effort. Nearly half of Scottsdale voters say they “strongly oppose” the campaign to derail the project.
