In a pivotal Arizona Senate meeting on June 23, 2025, the focus was on the nomination of key directors, particularly highlighting the leadership of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). Director Peters provided an insightful overview of her journey to the position, detailing her interview process with the governor's transition team in December 2022 and her subsequent appointment by Governor Hobbs.

Peters emphasized her commitment to enhancing public health and environmental standards in Arizona, stating, "Our mission continues to be to protect and enhance public health and environment in Arizona." She outlined her vision for the agency, which includes a shift towards science-based regulations and equitable communication with communities, aiming to balance the needs of regulated facilities with those of the public.

Senator Ortiz raised concerns about water quality issues in Maryvale, a community significantly affected by environmental challenges. Peters acknowledged these concerns and reiterated her focus on community engagement, stating that her leadership aims to address the needs of both facilities and the communities they impact.

The meeting also addressed the ADEQ's response to the recent Avian Flu outbreak, which led to the depopulation of a significant number of birds at a local farm. Peters explained the agency's role in navigating regulatory challenges and ensuring proper disposal methods to protect groundwater, showcasing the department's proactive approach in crisis management.

As the meeting concluded, Peters highlighted her achievements in streamlining operations within the agency, including reducing unnecessary processes to enhance efficiency. This meeting not only underscored the importance of environmental leadership in Arizona but also set the stage for future initiatives aimed at safeguarding public health and environmental integrity.