State population growth in exurbs
Arizona added nearly 109,000 new residents last year. But they were picky and choosy about where in the state they decided to live.
Limit immigration to fight climate change
There is an inherent tradeoff between economic growth and environmental sustainability, and if we want to fight climate change, we must acknowledge this reality. We needn't feel guilty about humanely limiting immigration to protect our environment and quality of life.
Birth rates drop sharply in state, according to analysis
The way economist George Hammond figures it, Arizona would have a lot more residents if women were giving birth now at the rate they did more than a decade ago.
Population growth brings fiscal, political power to AZ cities
If you’re wondering where Arizona is putting all of its new residents, look to the far suburbs.
Less is more when it comes to putting people in jail
So, while Phoenix may be bigger, it turns out bigger is not always better, especially when talking about jail populations. The real winners will likely be the taxpayers of Tucson and Pima County because their leaders realize less is more.
State population grows on wave of newcomers
Arizona added enough residents in the 12 months ending July 1 to rank its growth the fifth highest in the nation.
Medical marijuana businesses worry about legalization legislation
Phoenix Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego’s proposed legislation to legalize recreational marijuana in Arizona has some in the medical marijuana industry worried about losing their businesses.
Splitting the House
Shope eyes smaller districts for state representatives
Rep. T.J. Shope wants to cut Arizona’s massive House of Representatives districts in half.
The first-term lawmaker hasn’t completed his plans yet, but is strongly leaning toward a proposal that would split the House districts in half. Rather than have each legislative district elect two House members at large[...]
Officials: Valley agencies close to eliminating chronic homelessness among vets
By Jan. 1, housing agencies will have found homes for the last 56 chronically homeless veterans in the Valley, making it the first metropolitan area in the country to accomplish this, advocates say.
Too big?
Huge Arizona legislative districts spur debate about costs, meeting constituents’ needs
As lawmakers and hopeful candidates embark on their 2014 campaigns, many would probably be surprised to learn that they are running for some of the most populous legislative districts in the United States.
Hispanic electorate expanded, but still didn’t reach potential
For those who want to see more of Arizona’s Hispanic community participate in the political process, 2012 provided both a reason to celebrate and an impetus for continued effort.
Census: Arizonans older as demographics shift
Census figures set to be released Thursday show shifts in the state's population, with the percentage of Arizonans ages 14 and younger dropping in the past decade and an increase in the number of people ages 65 and older.