When Arizona’s boundaries are to be changed, who must approve the change?

The correct answer is that changes to Arizona’s boundaries must be approved by the U.S. Congress. This requirement is rooted in the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the authority to regulate the admission of new states, as well as any alterations to the boundaries of existing states. Specifically, Article IV, Section 3 of the Constitution states that no new state can be formed within the jurisdiction of an existing state without the consent of the state legislature as well as the Congress.

This oversight ensures that any territorial changes are governed at the federal level, reflecting the significance of such decisions, which can impact both governance and representation on a national scale. While state officials and residents may have a role in influencing boundary discussions or establishing local governance frameworks, ultimate approval for any changes is a federal matter that must be addressed by Congress.