The Arizona Legislature has given final approval to a bill setting out the conditions for the state’s community colleges to start offering four-year degrees. On Wednesday, the Senate passed the legislation with a 24-6 vote, and the House already approved SB 1453. The only thing that remains now is a decision by Gov. Doug Ducey.

There’s been bipartisan support for this bill, but both parties share concerns about costs. 

Democratic Sen. Rosanna Gabaldón, who voted "no," says she sees this bill as duplicating existing efforts by universities.

“Arizona's already underfunding our public education, and I believe this bill will make our community colleges and public universities compete for that same funding. Why make this a solution looking for a problem?" Gabaldón said. 

Republican Sen. David Livingston voted "yes," but also voiced his concern that this bill may result in higher taxes. 

https://kjzz.org/content/1679108/arizona-community-colleges-may-soon-offer-four-year-degrees