New Arizona Committees Target AI Innovation and Rural Economies

As Arizona prepares to convene the 57th Legislature, 2nd Regular Session, House leadership has announced a structural shift designed to address two forces shaping the state’s future: rapidly advancing technology and the long-term economic vitality of rural communities.

Speaker Steve Montenegro has unveiled the creation of two new House committees — the House Committee on Artificial Intelligence & Innovation and the House Committee on Rural Economic Development — signaling a focused effort to modernize policy discussions while ensuring that economic growth reaches every corner of the state.

Both committees are scheduled to meet on Thursdays at 9:00 a.m., beginning with the opening of the legislative session on January 12, 2026.

Responding to a Changing Economy

At the heart of the announcement is an acknowledgment that economic and technological shifts are accelerating, and that legislative frameworks must keep pace. Speaker Montenegro emphasized that emerging technologies are already reshaping how government functions and how the economy grows, while rural communities continue to play a foundational role in the state’s success.

He noted that lawmakers cannot afford to take a passive approach as technology evolves, and that rural regions deserve policies that reflect their importance in feeding, powering, and supporting Arizona. The creation of these committees is intended to provide dedicated forums where these issues can be examined thoughtfully and proactively.

A New Focus on Artificial Intelligence and Innovation

The newly formed House Committee on Artificial Intelligence & Innovation will be chaired by Justin Wilmeth. The committee’s scope reflects the growing influence of artificial intelligence across industries and the need for policymakers to understand both its opportunities and its challenges.

Wilmeth described artificial intelligence as a powerful engine of the national economy that is firmly established as part of the future. He said the formation of the committee signals an intent to examine how AI can contribute to Arizona’s competitiveness, from the creation of high-skill jobs to attracting new investment and strengthening existing industries, including semiconductors and healthcare.

Central to the committee’s mission is the idea of informed policymaking. Wilmeth expressed a desire to create a forum where experts, industry leaders, and members of the public can share perspectives, knowledge, and concerns. By bringing a range of voices into the conversation, the committee aims to develop legislation that is both effective and grounded in real-world experience.

He underscored that the state’s long-term competitiveness depends on embracing innovation and supporting those who choose to build and grow their ideas in Arizona.

Strengthening Rural Economic Development

Alongside the focus on technology, the House Committee on Rural Economic Development will be chaired by Teresa Martinez. This committee is designed to ensure that economic policy accounts for the unique needs and realities of rural communities.

Martinez highlighted that policies are often written without fully considering their impact on rural Arizona. Her goal is for the committee to closely examine how state decisions affect key areas such as jobs, infrastructure, water access, and local investment.

By taking a comprehensive look at these issues, the committee aims to advance policies that help rural communities grow, compete, and retain opportunity close to home. The focus is not only on economic growth, but on sustainability and resilience, recognizing that rural areas face different challenges and opportunities than urban centers.

Balancing Innovation and Inclusion

Together, the two committees reflect a broader approach to economic development — one that balances cutting-edge innovation with inclusive growth. The emphasis on artificial intelligence acknowledges the transformative potential of new technologies, while the focus on rural economic development ensures that progress is not limited to a few regions or sectors.

The committees are structured to encourage dialogue, examination, and collaboration, providing lawmakers with dedicated spaces to explore complex topics in depth. By separating these areas into focused committees, the legislature is positioning itself to better understand the nuances of each and to craft policies that are responsive rather than reactive.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Session

The 57th Legislature, 2nd Regular Session will officially convene on January 12, 2026, with both new committees meeting for the first time that week. Their work is expected to unfold over the course of the session, contributing to discussions that will shape Arizona’s economic and technological landscape in the years ahead.

As technology continues to advance and economic pressures evolve, the creation of these committees marks a step toward structured, forward-looking policymaking. By pairing innovation with attention to rural needs, Arizona’s House leadership is signaling an intent to address change thoughtfully, with an eye toward long-term opportunity and statewide impact.