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State universities slated to get $5M for little-known ‘freedom schools’
One of the few reprieves the universities are getting is a $5 million addition specifically earmarked for “economic freedom schools.” However, many lawmakers have no idea what an “economic freedom school” or center is.
Economists say business tax cuts costing state $350 million a year
Corporate tax cuts enacted during the Great Recession amid promises they would stimulate business growth are actually going to leave the state with $350 million less by the time they’re fully implemented.
End of House media ban means all eyes on budget
House Speaker David Gowan's decision to lift a ban on journalists covering proceedings from the House floor means all eyes are again focused on stalled negotiations on a nearly $10 billion state budget package.
Senate, House spreadsheets hint at modest budget increase
Senate President Andy Biggs wants to introduce a budget as early as next week, but House Republicans fear their chamber isn’t keeping up the pace, and House priorities could end up once again trampled in the Senate’s budget stampede.
Ducey wants budget deal before more bills are signed
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey is increasing the pressure on the Legislature to reach a budget deal by sending word to lawmakers that he doesn't want to see more bills until a state spending plan hits his desk.
Nest Eggs: Governor, Legislature plan to keep leftover funds
When times were tough and money was scarce, the Governor’s Office and Legislature held onto millions in leftover funds while cutting budgets elsewhere. Now that Arizona’s budget is back in the black, they’re showing little interest in changing course.
Prisons received nearly $1 million to cover leap year costs
The only agency in Arizona that requires leap year funding was allocated more than $900,000 to cover the costs of one extra calendar day.
Ducey budget authority request sparks separation-of-powers concerns
Republican lawmakers will soon have to make a decision that will pit their desire to promote responsible spending against the territoriality they’ve historically exercised over their appropriations authority.
Ducey is open to suggestions on JTED funding
As consensus quickly builds at the Capitol to restore funding for JTEDs, the governor’s proposal to create a $30 million, three-year competitive grant program looks more and more isolated. Shooter’s... […]
Lawmakers rally to restore JTED funds
State lawmakers are lining up en masse to block plans by Gov. Doug Ducey to sharply slash funding to career and technical education programs.
Lawmakers worry they will be bit players in budget process
As Gov. Doug Ducey begins the push to approve his budget proposal, some lawmakers worry they once again may be left behind.
Republicans see problems with JTED cuts, prison spending
Lawmakers at the joint Appropriations Committee briefing on Gov. Doug Ducey’s budget proposal Jan. 19 were only allotted time for one question each following the budget presentation, but the questions they asked were telling.
