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Free NewsletterBrewer, First Things First discussing budget solutions
Proposition 302 is history and a loan is off the table, but First Things First and the Governor's Office are looking for "creative" solutions the agency can offer for the state's budget crunch.
Kavanagh bill targets ASBA’s district fees, politicking
Rep. John Kavanagh, who backed this year's ballot measure to sweep hundreds of millions of dollars from a childhood development agency, has a message for an education group that opposed the effort: You don’t kick a hornet’s nest without risking a sting.
Retired police chiefs: First Things First reduces crime down the road
Helping at-risk children develop social skills and the ability to learn before they enter school prevents crime in the long run, retired Mesa Police Chief Dennis Donna said Monday.
Poll shows voters want to keep FTF
A new poll shows majority support among likely voters to retain an early childhood development program whose revenues are targeted by the Legislature.
First Things First flush with cash — for now
When lawmakers voted in March to put the referendum on the ballot — a measure that would sweep and dismantle the Early Childhood Development and Health Board Fund — they expected it to put about $325 million into the state’s cash-starved coffers. But as of Sept. 1, the agency had about $100 million more than that on hand.
Agency: Pearce e-mail suggesting FTF funds illegals, abortions is inaccurate
Sen. Russell Pearce, author of Arizona’s new strict immigration law, suggested in an e-mail that money from First Things First is funding services for illegal aliens and abortion.
Campaign committee aims to dismantle First Things First
Supporters of a proposal to dismantle program for early childhood development have formed a campaign committee to persuade voters to approve the measure this November.
First Things First users caught in political, economic hailstorm
The Legislature's decision to go after First Things First and its $325 million was inevitable, given the magnitude of the state's financial woes. But the agency also made political missteps that made it a target. Now the agency that is dedicated to providing health care services to children is fighting for its existence. In November, voters will be asked whether to continue the programs or dissol[...]
Judge: First Things First ballot language is impartial
A Maricopa County Superior Court judge decided Monday against changing the description of a ballot measure that aims to eliminate a voter-approved program for early childhood development and sweep its money.
Fate of First Things First hinges on ballot measure
In its last action to shore up the staggering state deficit, Arizona lawmakers decided to ask voters to dismantle a program aimed at expanding education and health services for children.
First Things First takes hit in final act of special session
Arizona lawmakers wrapped up their seventh special session March 16 but not before stripping a voter-approved program aimed at expanding education and health services for children.
Antenori absent; Senate postpones voting on final two budget bills
The Senate gaveled in and out of special session March 15 without any action on two budget measures that senators skipped voting on last week.
