State Parks task force recommends $15 surcharge at MVD
A task force appointed by Gov. Jan Brewer recommends adding $14 or $15 to annual vehicle registrations to help sustain Arizona State Parks. The recommendation from the Task Force on Sustainable State Parks Funding includes the ability for vehicle owners to opt out of the fee. Those who pay it would receive free admission to state parks.
Nearly two years later, Centennial Scholars proposal going nowhere
In her 2008 State of the State Address, Gov. Janet Napolitano proposed providing, despite the state's growing economic challenges, free college tuition to Arizona high school students who get good grades, perform community service and stay out of trouble.
Report: 11 states emerging from recession
As the national economy starts its slow recovery, 11 states and the District of Columbia are showing signs of emerging from the recession, according to a new report.
Brewer: Long-term solution to Arizona’s economic woes depends on jobs
While a temporary sales tax increase would help address Arizona's budget crisis, a long-term solution will depend on attracting firms that offer high-paying jobs, Gov. Jan Brewer told business leaders Nov. 4. "Our future pivots on our ability to create jobs, better jobs, permanent jobs and more of them," Brewer said at a Greater Phoenix Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
Lawmakers discuss streamlining, consolidating mining permits
A panel of lawmakers and experts has begun looking into the state of the mining industry in Arizona with the ultimate aim of helping the industry grow. Among the topics... […]
Brewer: Stimulus has created 10,000 jobs in Arizona
Nearly 10,000 jobs have been created or retained by Arizona’s stimulus money, according to the Governor’s Office.
Kirkpatrick raises concerns about renewable energy’s cost to rural Arizona residents
Duncan Mayor M.C. Holiday has nothing against renewable energy. But as the state and federal governments look toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions, he hopes officials will keep in mind that his remote town has a high unemployment rate and many residents on fixed incomes.
Lottery renewal needed before state can borrow
The odds of winning the Arizona Lottery's big jackpot are about one in 175 million. The odds that lawmakers will sell off future lottery revenues for a quick cash infusion are exponentially better. As lawmakers ponder how to fix a fiscal 2011 budget deficit that is expected to top $2 billion, many are viewing lottery securitization as a last resort whose time has come.
Arizona leaders to tackle budget at 95th Town Hall at Grand Canyon
More than 100 Arizona leaders will meet in Grand Canyon Village on Nov. 1-4, as part of the 95th Arizona Town Hall meeting, focusing on the fiscal problems of the state. The meeting, entitled "Riding the Fiscal Roller Coaster: Government Revenue in Arizona," is hosted by the Arizona Town Hall nonprofit organization, which organizes the event biannually.
Getting state there from here: Arizonans agree on one solution
Reliable, reasonably priced transportation options are vital, especially in a state where the car is king, public transportation is severely limited, fuel prices are in continual flux, the number of elderly residents is rising rapidly and commodities must be imported by truck, train, pipeline or plane.
Gambling pitched as Arizona’s budget salvation
The struggling Arizona racing industry is hoping it can sell lawmakers on a proposal to help racetracks stay open and give the state hundreds of millions of dollars in new revenue. But the idea faces resistance on several fronts, as it would expand gambling by allowing "racinos" and by lifting limits on tribal casinos.
Brewer: Expanded Nogales port will boost international trade
NOGALES - Expanding the Mariposa Port of Entry here will reduce delays in each direction, boost international trade and enhance security, Gov. Jan Brewer said Oct. 22. "The expansion will benefit real people who are at the heart of international trade," Brewer said. "We have yet to realize the potential of the trade between Arizona and Sonora."