Members of the Latino Caucus held a press conference ahead of Gov. Janet Napolitano’s State of the State address on Jan. 12, to press for protection of programs and initiatives that impact their community.
They discussed, among others, the community’s health care, education, and housing needs.
They emphasized that a good chunk of the state’s population — nearly 30 percent — is Hispanic.
Rep. Ben Miranda, a Democrat from Phoenix, said it is reasonable and proper to be concerned about these issues, particularly in these trying economic times.
Other lawmakers present included Rep. Martha Garcia, and senators Richard Miranda, Linda Lopez, Jorge Garcia and Manny Alvarez.
Jose Nanez, a psychology and neuro-science professor at ASU, urged protection of all-day kindergarten, which he says saves public money. He said kids who attended high-quality kindergarten programs are significantly less likely to do drugs or get in trouble with the law. 
He also discussed the cognitive benefits of learning multiple languages. “High quality, early bilingual education for all citizens increases their ability to subsequently compete in today’s global economy,” he said. “The rest of the world speaks multiple languages. In America, we are stuck (with) speaking English.”
Health care workers also urged the Legislature to think very carefully about the cuts they are expected to make to programs.
Veronica Vital, a research nurse with ASU’s Center for Metabolic Biology, spoke of the need to control diabetes. Controlling it and lowering the risk of complication, she said, can ultimately decrease the state’s health care costs.
“I feel it is imperative that our state continues to support diabetes education and outreach efforts in our communities,” she said.  
“As the largest minority group in the nation,” Sen. Richard Miranda of Tolleson, co-chair of the Arizona Latino Legislative Caucus, said in an e-mail last week, “We believe it is necessary to spotlight issues, which have a great impact on our community.” He added: “In these immensely difficult economic times, it is our hope that the Legislature continues to be mindful of these issues as a budget is crafted and as legislation is drafted.”