New Lawmaker Profile: Sen. Al Melvin, R-Tucson

NOTE: This is one of a series of biographical sketches Cronkite News Service is producing about new members of the Arizona State Legislature. Each follows this format and includes a mugshot.

_ Name: Al Melvin
_ Chamber: Senate
_ Party: Republican
_ Profession: Consulting firm owner. Teaches economics and international business at the University of Arizona, University of Phoenix and Western International University.
_ Hometown: Tucson
_ Legislative District: No. 26, which stretches from the Catalina Foothills and Flowing Wells sections of Tucson north through Oro Valley and Catalina.
_ Committee Assignments: Appropriations; Public Safety and Human Services; Veterans and Military Affairs; Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation and Criminal Justice.
_ Previous or Current Elected Offices: Precinct committeeman.
_ Highlights of Community Involvement: 30 years in military, retired as captain in United States Naval Reserve; member of SaddleBrooke Rotary Club; American Legion; National Rifle Association.
_ Why He Ran: “I looked at the current government and two representatives (in his district) and they didn’t represent my political views.”
_ His Focus: A five-point plan: border security, improved K-12 education, tax reform, cleaner environment and sustainable energy.
_ A Bill: SB 1431, co-sponsored with Rep. Frank Antenori, would establish a committee to study nuclear power as a viable source of energy and income for the state.

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Reporting by Michelle Price, Cronkite News Service

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Sen. Al Melvin, R-Tucson