PHOENIX, AZ – At the conclusion of the second regular session of Arizona’s 57th Legislature, the Greater Phoenix Chamber led significant policy victories for Arizona’s business community, including business tax provisions supporting growth, investments in infrastructure and childcare, and rejecting mandates that would limit businesses.
Throughout the session, the Chamber worked alongside lawmakers and stakeholders to advance policies that strengthen Arizona’s economy and further solidify the state’s competitive business climate. Of the 46 bills the Chamber supported, 27 were signed into law.
BUDGET
While no budget is ever perfect, the Chamber commends Arizona’s Legislature and the Governor for approving a budget package that includes important business tax provisions designed to help local companies continue to grow and invest in the state.
The Chamber commends our elected leaders for maintaining and expanding investments in public infrastructure. Building upon this investment sends a clear message that Arizona remains open for business and is prepared for future growth. HB 4026, which was ultimately included in the budget, was supported by a broad range of business associations. It increases the amount cities and counties can be reimbursed for providing public infrastructure improvements benefitting major manufacturing projects. A special thank you to House Majority Leader Carbone for his leadership in advancing these critically important infrastructure priorities.
In addition, the Chamber applauds the legislature and the Governor for continuing to increase childcare funding for another year. As businesses of all sizes and industries look to fill workforce gaps, accessibility to reliable childcare remains essential to supporting working families. Childcare tax relief included approximately $147.6 million for an expanded child tax credit and a tax credit for childcare expenses, providing additional financial relief to parents who are critical to sustaining our workforce. With this expanded childcare assistance, an additional 600 Arizona children are expected to gain access to important childcare resources.
HOUSE BILL 2938
This legislative session, the Chamber also celebrated the passage of HB 2938, which addresses challenges stemming from the declining supply of pennies. Reduced penny circulation has created serious operational concerns for many retailers across Arizona. We are thankful to Representative Martinez and Senate Majority Leader Kavanagh for their efforts to create a solution that provides certainty for businesses while remaining fair to consumers.
BUSINESS MANDATES
Once again, throughout the session, numerous proposals were introduced that would have affected the broader business community across industries. Working closely with lawmakers, the Chamber highlighted the potential economic impacts of these proposals and advocated for a balanced regulatory environment. The Chamber would like to specifically thank both Senate President Petersen and House Speaker Montenegro for ensuring many of these bills would not make it to the finish line.
FUTURE OUTLOOK
Arizona’s business-friendly environment is one of our state’s greatest competitive advantages. The Greater Phoenix Chamber continues to play a significant role in ensuring Arizona remains one of the nation’s most competitive places to do business and remains committed to advancing policies that foster long-term economic growth. The Chamber continues to work collaboratively with policymakers, business leaders, and community stakeholders to advance policies that strengthen our state’s economy, expand workforce development, and create opportunities for businesses and residents alike.
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| About the Greater Phoenix Chamber
Representing businesses across the Greater Phoenix region since 1888, the Greater Phoenix Chamber catalyzes regional prosperity with forward-thinking public policy, intentional economic growth, and diverse, prepared talent. The Chamber pursues this mission by collaborating with business, political, and community leaders to grow the regional talent pool, create a regional approach to economic development, and drive a pro-Arizona agenda. FOLLOW ONLINE: Learn more: |