PHOENIX (January 15, 2021)—Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry President and CEO Glenn Hamer released the following statement regarding Gov. Doug Ducey’s Fiscal Year 2022 Executive Budget:
“Gov. Ducey once again has begun the annual budget process with a smart, prudent spending plan that makes critical investments to make Arizona a better place to live, get an education and build a business.
“Arizona is now spending more from all sources on a per-pupil basis than at any time in the state’s history. The governor’s education initiatives will help our students make up for any pandemic-induced learning loss and will help parents, including those with limited transportation options, find the best educational fit for their kids, something that has become even more important during the last several months of educational disruptions.
“His budget sets up students for success and prioritizes accountability, whether by positioning Arizona as a national leader in delivering to young learners the instruction necessary to attain critically important reading skills, preparing high-schoolers for higher education or the job market, or developing a pipeline of college graduates to fill in-demand jobs.
“The budget also makes sure Arizona maintains its competitive edge for job attraction, with a call to phase in up to $600 million in tax reductions by fiscal year 2024, which could result in the most significant personal income and small business tax relief since the 1990s.
“The governor’s budget also makes important investments in water quality, forest health, and infrastructure, including a major effort to expand access to internet broadband throughout Arizona.
“Arizona begins this budget cycle in a much stronger fiscal position than many states around the country. The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry looks forward to building on this success and working with the Governor’s Office and legislators in both parties to craft a final budget that meets Arizona’s critical needs and wisely prepares the state for unforeseen demands during this uncertain economic period.”
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