Arizona Capitol Times Election Coverage Your Inside Track to Arizona Elections
I know there will be plenty to debate regarding immigration, but I assume much time will also be given to the fiscal health of Arizona and to sensible state laws. Along that line, here are three questions people should ask political candidates as we get closer to the election:
First, would you support legislation that brings to the ballot an amendment to our state Constitution that would cap state spending on Medicaid (AHCCCS) to not exceed a fixed percentage of revenue the state actually has collected in any fiscal year, and restrict Medicaid funding to only what the state can afford without incurring new debt? Doing so would prevent runaway spending driven by unfunded mandates that could bankrupt Arizona.
Second, would you support legislation that brings to the ballot an amendment to our state Constitution requiring that all tax or spending referenda, including bond measures, would need a minimum of 25 percent of registered voters to actually vote on the ballot measure in order for it to be eligible to pass? Less than 25 percent participation should force automatic failure. This would ensure that a sensible minimum number of voters are deciding tax and spending measures, and would help tremendously to reign in the power and influence of special interests in the referendum process.
Third, San Tan Valley residents in Pinal County were recently blocked by the town of Florence from the opportunity to vote on incorporation. State law provides an extraordinary enticement in state shared revenues, and Florence was unwilling to consider any reduction that might happen if San Tan Valley were to incorporate. State law provides no recourse for San Tan Valley residents who want to incorporate but remain subject to a veto from Florence, which can forever block a vote on incorporation. Will you champion the plight of the San Tan Valley residents and bring constructive dialog and/or legislation that in the end will allow the San Tan Valley residents to decide their own destiny?
— Bob Dotson, San Tan Foothills
