Climate-change science proven and certain as dangers to planet grow
It would be great if climate change science was, as many people wish, unproven or uncertain. Alas, it is neither unproven nor uncertain and the impacts on our state, our country, and our planet are disastrous, certain, and growing ever more dangerous each year that we ignore the need for responsible, common-sense approaches to reduce emissions.
To provide abatements or not – that is the question
Hamlet may have had a weightier choice when pondering his continued existence, but the existence of property tax abatements seems to be on everyone’s mind at this time.
Put aside differences to reach unanimous consensus on K-12 funding
Governor Ducey recently called on Congress to “talk to each other,” to “stop playing games,” and to “get it done” when referring to the government shutdown. We echo that sentiment. Our classrooms are in crisis. We need our leaders to talk to each other, and get it done.
Multiple steps needed to fund public schools – drive state’s economy
These initial steps to properly fund public education must be approved by the Legislature and then the next steps must be supported to ensure that public education is adequately funded.
Like Texas, Arizona would benefit from Justice Reinvestment Initiatives
For Arizona, the bottom line is that the prison population will continue to be reduced by additional changes and the state will save a substantial amount of money over the next several years instead of continuing to increase spending without benefitting public safety. Isn’t it worth taking the extra step and reinstituting the reinvestment portion of the legislation? It will only add to the posit[...]
Misconceptions are plentiful over treatment of opioid addiction
In reality, the most effective treatment modality is a combination of many treatments tailored to each individual’s needs. However, it is imperative, in the midst of this epidemic, that we base our decisions on facts and evidence rather than on philosophies, vested business interests, anecdotal evidence or personal experiences. Only then will we be able to move the needle in this arduous fight.
Lots of hot air around blow dry bill; it gets rid of regulations
There’s a lot of hot air around HB2011, the “blow dry bar bill,” which will free people who want to perform hair grooming services from government regulation that the public never asked for and does not need.
Charter schools should embrace criticism and become better
Last month, the ACLU of Arizona released “Schools Choosing Students,” a report detailing the illegal or exclusionary enrollment policies at many of the state’s charter schools, which lead to students being denied equal access to a high-quality education. Every piece of information in the report is specific, sourced and designed to help families and schools.
Governor’s opioid epidemic playbook is one to follow
Earlier this week, Gov. Doug Ducey stood before a remarkable assembly of lawmakers from the majority and minority caucuses and stakeholders from corrections, faith communities, law enforcement, treatment agencies, and all points in between as he called a special session to address the opioid addiction crisis in Arizona.
Physicians are committed to ending the opioid epidemic
As the largest organization in our state representing the interests of all physicians, the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA) – through physician leadership serving as subject matter experts, clinicians, and patient advocates – has been an engaged participant in stakeholder meetings regarding the opioid abuse epidemic since our community began working to address it.
Why a lawsuit is necessary for equitable, sustainable capital funding
It’s good to see the dramatic support for the belief that great public schools need to be part of Arizona’s recipe for success. And we are making progress toward having the best public schools in every community.
Why AASBO withdrew from the capital funding lawsuit
Given the seriousness with which the AASBO Board of Directors took our recent action to withdraw as a plaintiff in the capital funding lawsuit, we felt it was important to take this opportunity to reiterate some facts and re-emphasize our position with regard to the lawsuit.