Governor delays certifying Prop. 200

Gov. Janet Napolitano refused Wednesday to formally proclaim voter approval of Proposition 200, a move that will further delay implementing the voting provisions of the initiative. Napolitano said she decided not to act after a federal judge on Tuesday blocked implementation of the new law pending a Dec. 22 hearing. The governor said if Judge David Bury lifts his restraining order at that time she is prepared to sign the papers. But the move is drawing fire from Kathy McKee who said the governor has been purposely dragging her feet on the issue to give foes a chance to challenge the law. McKee acknowledged that now, with the case in court and a restraining order in place, the initiative cannot take effect unless and until the judge gives his permission. [more]