New law eases ADA fixes, deters unscrupulous attorneys
During the past year, Arizona businesses of all sizes were targeted by unscrupulous attorneys filing ADA lawsuits. While the chamber encourages all businesses to comply with ADA requirements, many of these lawsuits were not focused on ADA compliance, but were attempts to extort money from business owners with often very minor ADA violations.
Prohibiting forest health management practices protects land ‘to death’
President Trump’s executive order calling for a review of expansive executive land designations under the Antiquities Act of 1906 has predictably generated a volume of debate and dire predictions. Missing from the discussion is thoughtful dialogue about the critical role of multiple-use management in natural resources conservation and the sometimes dire consequences to our natural resources of r[...]
Properly analyzing tax policy – where to start the debate
The next few weeks will include much debate about President Trump’s economic plans with a primary focus on tax cuts. The typical question will be: “So, is this good?” The typical answer by policymakers and economists will be either “yes” or “no.” That’s it. Interview over. This doesn’t come close to the bare minimum discussion that is required. Here is my offering of where to sta[...]
It’s time for tax reform – here are 6 principles for success
Between health care reform, the border wall, and growing international unrest, Washington has a lot on its plate in the weeks to come. But we must make a point of prioritizing tax reform. Thirty years have passed since the last serious reforms, and our economy has been hampered by our outdated system. We haven’t achieved growth of 3 percent or higher since 2005.
Taxpayer financial privacy outweighs third-party efficiencies
Another tax season has passed and of the millions of law-abiding taxpayers who filed, many had to wonder if their private financial information would remain secure. There is ample evidence to justify taxpayer concerns about confidentiality and security.
To ensure grid reliability, keep Navajo Generating Station operating
The state of Arizona – much like the rest of the nation – is at an energy crossroads. As demand for electricity grows, residents and policymakers are wrestling with questions that will define the future of the state’s energy grid, and will determine Arizona’s ability to keep its lights on and its economy vibrant in the years to come.
Central Arizona Water Conservation District plan is a risky gambit
If recent climatic experience has taught Arizonans anything, it is that the specter of drought is an ever-present proposition. Droughts of 30- or even 50-year durations are not unknown phenomena. So, even when Mother Nature blesses us with a wet year, like this year, water in the Southwest remains a scarce resource that must be managed cooperatively with a long-term view, if we are to assure that [...]
Increase state revenues – no new taxes are required
Very likely far more dollars could be gained with improved tax enforcement, but adding corporate auditors is an obvious step. It’s a win-win for the state and those that already comply with the state’s tax laws.
Why Arizona is driving the future of self-driving cars
When you think of places at the forefront of innovation, of course, California’s Silicon Valley immediately comes to mind. But when it comes to self-driving cars, one of the most transformative technological developments of our time, Arizona’s own Valley of the Sun is a pioneer.
Investment in universities leads to huge payoff, high-paying jobs
The case for Governor Doug Ducey’s infrastructure plan for public universities comes down to one word: Jobs. We’re talking about quality, high-paying jobs – the kind provided by employers that demand a trained, educated workforce. The fundamental tie between higher education and the economy is the reason business and community leaders from across Arizona have thrown their support behind the [...]
It’s time for tax reform, here are six principles for success
Between health care reform, the border wall, and growing international unrest, Washington has a lot on its plate in the weeks to come. But we must make a point of prioritizing tax reform. Thirty years have passed since the last serious reforms, and our economy has been hampered by our outdated system.
Cooperation is imperative to protect our water
Arizonans have a history of putting partisanship aside and finding common ground when it comes to resolving our water disputes. With vision and leadership, we have created a thriving economy and secured our water future. It has not been easy, requiring negotiation, cooperation and compromise every step of the way.