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Rename utility commission Rate Hikes ‘R’ Us
Under its current composition, the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) has never met a utility rate hike it doesn’t like. Its recent decision to grant Arizona Public Service (APS) a 14.56% rate hike was just the latest in a flurry of hikes rubberstamped by the commission.
DPS pay not competitive – results in 500 vacancies
Driving on our interstates and state routes, you might feel remiss if you fail to spot a Department of Public Safety trooper patrolling. Those troopers must be hiding behind a large ground-mounted billboard or behind a grouping of trees hoping to catch speeders and other scofflaws. But the real reason patrol cars can’t be seen – they just aren’t there.
Too late – abortion ban has already hurt Republicans
Few issues in American politics are as contentious as the issue of abortion. Since the Dobbs decision, many state governments have imposed various restrictions on abortion access, but none can compare to Arizona's 1864 law, part of the Howell Code. This law "bans nearly all abortions" in the state.
On tax day, thank President Biden for investing in the future
One possible way to use the tax benefits currently enjoyed by a profitable industry is to redirect them toward addressing pressing national issues, such as supporting those who have served. Our nation's fiscal policies should reflect our values, prioritizing the needs of the many over the interests of a privileged few.
A veto that would save animals, protect humans
Labeling food mRNA free would be sending a false message to consumers. Since mRNA is an essential component of all living organisms, labeling food products “mRNA free” is not only misleading to Arizona consumers it is also scientifically inaccurate.
School choice – educating students, building communities
Our nation has long struggled with the tension between embracing innovation and preserving what we love about our small towns. School choice proves that we can choose both, offering each family the opportunity to customize their children’s learning while bolstering the nonprofits, businesses, and institutions that are the heartbeat of our communities’ civil societies.
Feds hypocritical if they don’t reschedule cannabis
The wisdom of rescheduling has been obvious for years, yet it has not happened. Moving cannabis from a Schedule 1 drug to a Schedule 3 controlled substance would mark a milestone in long overdue policy and allow the U.S. to better understand a substance that undeniably has medicinal value.
Power company doesn’t want ACC review of new gas plants
Unisource Electric (UNSE) the sister company of Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and subsidiary of Fortis Inc., an international energy company, has asked the committee (and the ACC) to waive its jurisdiction over these very projects.
Legislature needs professional ‘Devils Advocates’
Social media is changing political outcomes in Arizona for good and for ill. To the extent that we can adapt our democratic institutions to be more receptive to its salutary effects and more immune to its corroding effects, we should do so post haste. To members of the Legislature who might be reading this in agreement, please find another member on the other side of the aisle and make this idea a[...]
HB2491 makes AZ national leader in regulatory procedure
This bill sets a precedent for state-level regulatory reform by safeguarding the interests of small businesses, enhancing transparency, and ensuring a diverse range of voices participate in the regulatory process. HB2491 acknowledges that at the heart of every regulation, there ought to be a dialogue — one that respects legislative intent, fosters economic growth, is accountable to the public [...]
Health care for military veterans needs flexibility
I urge our elected officials to seize this opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of countless military families. By voting in favor of SB1036, you will not only honor our veterans' sacrifices but also empower social workers to fulfill their calling with unwavering dedication and effectiveness.
Being valued, seen, heard in our polarized society
In a political forgiveness training program, we not only experience feeling more peaceful within ourselves by letting go of grievances and petty anger, but also learn how to build a community by building trust and developing a working relationship with one another. We learn how to develop a new way of thinking where people can accept each other as legitimate partners linking forgiveness to societa[...]
