What is the main function of the state legislature?

The primary function of the state legislature is to create state laws. This legislative body is responsible for debating, amending, and passing bills that can address various issues within the state, such as education, health, transportation, and taxation. By enacting laws, the legislature reflects the values and needs of the citizens it represents.

In the context of governance, the state legislature serves as the law-making branch of government, distinct from the executive branch, which enforces laws, and the judicial branch, which interprets them. This separation of powers ensures that no single entity has unchecked authority and that laws are created through a democratic process involving representatives elected by the people.

While interpreting and enforcing laws or overseeing federal laws are important activities within the broader scope of government, they do not fall within the core responsibilities of the state legislature. Instead, those roles are typically assigned to courts and the executive branch, respectively. By focusing on the creation of state laws, the legislature plays a crucial role in shaping the legal framework and public policy initiatives that impact everyday lives in Arizona.