By Matthew Holloway |
The Arizona Legislature will return to the State Capitol today, marking the start of the Fifty-Seventh Legislature, Second Regular Session and the beginning of legislative work for 2026.
According to information published by the Arizona Legislature, the opening day will include ceremonies in both chambers of the Capitol, followed by a joint session of the House and Senate later in the afternoon.
Per a legislative announcement released ahead of the session, events will begin at 11:00 a.m. with welcome music in the Capitol courtyard performed by the Eastern Arizona College Marching Band.
The Arizona Senate is scheduled to convene at noon in the Senate Chamber to formally open the Second Regular Session. The program outlined in the legislative release includes gathering music by Trio Fratelli, a call to order by Senate President Warren Petersen (R-LD14), an invocation delivered by Pastor Luke Simmons of Ironwood Church, and the presentation of the colors by the Luke Air Force Base Honor Guard.
The Pledge of Allegiance is scheduled to be led by Senator Priya Sundareshan (D-LD17), followed by the national anthem performed by Trio Fratelli. Petersen is expected to deliver opening remarks before the Senate recesses.
Following the recess, Brian Mueller, president of Grand Canyon University, is scheduled to address lawmakers and guests, according to the same announcement.
At 2:00 p.m., members of the House and Senate are scheduled to convene in the House Chamber for a joint session, during which Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs is expected to deliver the annual State of the State address, outlining her priorities for the year ahead.
Following the joint session, the Senate is scheduled to reconvene to complete remaining Senate business.
In a statement included with the opening-day announcement, Petersen said lawmakers are entering the 2026 session focused on affordability and public safety.
“This session, our top priority is to provide real relief for the people of Arizona,” Petersen said. “Opening day is both a celebration and a call to action. It offers a special opportunity for the legislature to welcome their families and loved ones to the Capitol as we mark the beginning of a new session. As we start our work, our focus is clear: lowering costs, making Arizona affordable, protecting our freedoms, and enhancing community safety. I look forward to commencing this session and delivering results for Arizonans across the state.”
The opening-day ceremonies and the joint session will be livestreamed on the Arizona Legislature’s official website at: https://www.azleg.gov/liveproceedings.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
