Economic Development Archives - ��

Banner Health report spotlights Arizona’s medical research momentum��

Graham Bosch — Thu, 28 May 2026 17:15:14 +0000

Banner Health’s research enterprise delivered new treatment opportunities to patients in 2025 while strengthening Arizona’s position in medical innovation, according to the health system’s newly released��.��

The report also highlights Banner’s role in Arizona’s health care and research economy.

Banner’s $80.5 million research enterprise now supports 1,300 translational and clinical studies spanning neuroscience, cardiology, oncology and orthopedics.

“We are deeply committed to advancing patient care through the power of clinical research,” said Corey Casper, MD, MPH, Banner’s chief research officer.

Banner’s research footprint spans 33 hospitals and includes 371 team members, 315 scientific publications, 158,470 biomarker tests for collaborators and 16,389 brain tissue samples shared with scientific groups in 10 countries.

Banner said partnerships are also helping expand the reach of its research enterprise, including collaborations with the University of Arizona and MD Anderson Cancer Center, as well as relationships with institutions such as Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins University and Arizona State University.

Amy Perry, Banner Health’s president and chief executive officer, described the research enterprise as a “strategic investment in Arizona’s future” in the release.

Among the milestones highlighted in the 2025 report was Banner’s role in advancing the first FDA-approved device for severe mitral annular calcification, a heart valve condition affecting up to 30% of older Americans that has traditionally required open-heart surgery.

“Banner Health’s continued commitment to patients and communities shows the role Arizona can play in advancing medical innovation,” said Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry. “Its investment in research and patient care is strengthening our economy and making a meaningful difference for Arizona patients and communities.”

Banner Health will be recognized with the Corporate Citizen Award at the Arizona ��’s Annual Awards Celebration on June 2, 2026, highlighting its broader role in Arizona’s economy and its dedication to serving communities across the state.

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Court upholds Arizona law tied to international headquarters developments

Joe Pitts — Mon, 18 May 2026 16:54:02 +0000

A Maricopa County Superior Court judge has upheld the constitutionality of an Arizona law designed to help mid-sized cities attract large international headquarters projects, delivering a win for state business groups and economic development advocates.

Senate Bill 1543 was passed in 2025 amid debate surrounding Axon Enterprise’s proposed headquarters expansion in Scottsdale, which included plans for housing, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial development surrounding the company’s corporate campus.

Supporters argued the measure would help Arizona compete for major corporate and international headquarters investments by giving qualifying cities additional flexibility for large mixed-use campus developments. Critics, meanwhile, argued the bill amounted to unconstitutional “special legislation” tailored specifically for Axon’s project.

A lawsuit was brought by Scottsdale-based TAAAZE, a political action committee that argued the law improperly carved out special treatment for certain developments and effectively bypassed local referendum efforts.

In a ruling issued late last week, Judge Michael Herrod rejected those claims, finding that the measure serves a broader statewide economic development purpose by helping attract major international headquarters investments to Arizona.

“The statewide problem addressed by A.R.S. § 9-461.19 is attracting international headquarters,” the ruling states. “The legislature has made a determination that to address this problem, cities of middle-sized populations are likely candidates to attract such headquarters.”

The court further concluded that because the statute could apply to other qualifying cities and projects in the future, it is not a special law.

The Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry, which filed an amicus brief in the case, said the decision reinforces the state’s ability to compete for major employers and long-term investment.

“This ruling is about much more than a single project,” said Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry. “Arizona’s economic growth depends on our ability to compete for major employers, attract high-wage jobs, and create an environment where companies can invest with confidence. The court recognized that the Legislature has the authority to pursue policies that support statewide economic development and long-term competitiveness.”

Mike Bailey, the ��’s general counsel and director of legal reform programs, said the ruling should result in additional clarity around the Legislature’s role in zoning and economic development policy.

“The court affirmed an important legal principle here: zoning authority ultimately flows from the state, and the Legislature has broad discretion to address matters of statewide concern,” Bailey said. “The decision also reinforces that laws aimed at encouraging economic development are not unconstitutional simply because they may initially apply to a limited number of jurisdictions or projects.”

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Court rejects referenda��challenges tied to Marana development projects��

Joe Pitts — Mon, 11 May 2026 18:14:02 +0000

A recent court decision in Pima County is being viewed as a meaningful win for Arizona’s business and development community, reinforcing long-standing legal boundaries around when local actions can be challenged by referendum.  &�Բ��;

The April 30 ruling denied a petition filed by a group called Arizonans for Responsible Development, which had sought to force the Town of Marana to process a referendum challenge to a development agreement tied to a hotel project on approximately 19 acres of town-owned property in downtown Marana. Judge Jeffrey T. Bergin found that the town’s action was administrative rather than legislative, meaning it is not subject to referendum under Arizona law.  ��

The practical effect: the project can move forward subject to appellate review.  &�Բ��;

Why it matters for Arizona’s business community  &�Բ��;

Mike Bailey, general counsel and director of legal reform programs for the Arizona ��, said the ruling has implications well beyond Marana.  &�Բ��;

“This decision reinforces an important principle: when a community has already gone through a public process to establish its development plan, a resolution that carries out that plan shouldn’t have to start from scratch,” Bailey said. “Using the referendum process to relitigate settled land-use policy is a tactic we’re seeing more frequently, and it creates real uncertainty for businesses and communities trying to plan ahead.” &�Բ��;

Arizona �� President and CEO Danny Seiden said the case reflects a broader pattern the �� has been watching closely.  &�Բ��;

“Communities across Arizona are working hard to attract investment and create jobs, and that work depends on a process that’s predictable and transparent,” Seiden said. “When development projects that have gone through proper public channels get tied up in legal challenges designed to delay or derail them, everyone loses. This ruling is a good outcome for Marana and a good outcome for Arizona.”  &�Բ��;

The legal background  &�Բ��;

The central question was whether the town’s resolution created new policy or simply carried out a framework already in place. The court found that the resolution implemented zoning and land-use parameters established nearly two decades ago through a 2008 ordinance that created the Downtown Marana plan. Because it executed existing policy rather than establishing new policy, the court concluded it was administrative in nature and not subject to referendum.  &�Բ��;

The plaintiffs had also argued that state law requires all development agreements to go through the referendum process.

The court rejected that argument as well, consistent with prior Court of Appeals rulings on the same question.  &�Բ��;

A second case, a similar outcome &�Բ��;

In a separate but related case, the court also ruled in favor of the Town of Marana in a dispute over referendum petitions tied to a proposed data center project. &�Բ��;

In that case, the court granted summary judgment affirming the Town Clerk’s decision to reject the petitions after finding they did not strictly comply with Arizona’s statutory requirements governing referendum filings.  &�Բ��;

The ruling reinforces another key principle: even when a referendum is permitted, the process must be followed precisely. Arizona statutes establish a strict compliance standard to ensure voters have full and accurate information when considering ballot measures. &�Բ��;

Together, the two rulings draw clearer lines around both when referendums can be used and how they must be executed — distinctions that matter to businesses and communities trying to plan and invest with confidence. &�Բ��;

The decisions come as the Arizona �� continues to push for local ballot reform at the Legislature through SB 1429 and HCR 2051, aimed at bringing greater consistency and transparency to the initiative and referendum process at the local level. &�Բ��;

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Banner Health report underscores major economic, workforce impact across Arizona

Guest Contributor — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:59:31 +0000

As Arizona’s largest private employer, Banner Health is highlighting its outsized role not only in health care, but in the state’s broader economy.

In its newly released 2025 annual report, the Phoenix-based nonprofit health system said it invested $1.1 billion back into the communities it serves, supporting patient care, workforce development, research, and prevention efforts. The report also estimates Banner’s operations generate a $12 billion annual economic impact across Arizona.

The figures reinforce Banner’s standing as one of Arizona’s most consequential institutions for both public health and economic growth.

According to the report, Banner supports 140,000 jobs statewide, including 60,000 direct employees and another 80,000 indirect jobs tied to its operations and related economic activity.

For Arizona’s business community, those numbers underscore how health care systems increasingly serve as pillars of regional economic development, workforce stability, and long-term competitiveness.

“A strong health care system is foundational to a strong economy,” Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry President and CEO Danny Seiden said. “Banner Health’s continued investment in Arizona’s workforce, communities, and long-term health outcomes demonstrates how essential institutions like this help make our state a place where businesses can grow, families can thrive, and talent wants to live and work.”

That broader economic perspective is reflected in Banner’s nonprofit model, which emphasizes reinvestment in patient care, technology, workforce development, and community-based services across Arizona.

“As a nonprofit health system, every dollar we earn is invested into our care, services, technology, talent and communities, not Wall Street shareholders,” Banner Health President and CEO Amy Perry said in the report’s .

That reinvestment model is especially visible in Banner’s workforce pipeline efforts, a critical issue as Arizona continues to grapple with population growth and a rising demand for health care professionals.

The annual report notes Banner trains more than 1,300 residents and fellows each year, supports 7,000 nursing students annually, and provides hands-on health care career experiences for more than 3,500 high school students through programs such as Camp Scrubs.

Those investments come as Arizona employers across sectors continue to emphasize the importance of talent development and workforce readiness.

Beyond its role as an employer, Banner also detailed major investments aimed at improving health outcomes in Arizona communities.

Among the report’s highlights, the system said it served 70,000 meals to low-income seniors through the Banner Olive Branch Senior Center and distributed more than 1 million pounds of food through its pantry operations.

Banner’s BIG Pink Bus mobile mammography program also screened nearly 1,000 women, with 18% receiving their first-ever screening, expanding access to preventive care in communities that may otherwise face barriers to early detection services.

The report also cites measurable gains in preventive care among Medicaid populations, including a 114% increase in colorectal cancer screenings and more than an 1,100% increase in blood pressure checks year over year.

For employers and policymakers alike, those gains carry implications that extend beyond the health sector.

A healthier workforce can translate into reduced absenteeism, improved productivity, and lower long-term health costs — all factors that influence Arizona’s economic competitiveness.

As the state continues to attract new residents, businesses, and investment, Banner’s report makes clear that health care infrastructure remains a central driver of Arizona’s economic momentum.

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Ariz. lawmakers show colleagues from Show Me state what policies lead to economic growth

Guest Contributor — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:56:10 +0000

A delegation of Missouri state lawmakers and business leaders visited Arizona last week for a policy exchange focused on economic development, emerging technologies, and regulatory strategy, hosted by the Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry and the Goldwater Institute.

The visit drew a cross-section of Arizona’s legislative leadership, including House Speaker Steve Montenegro, Majority Leader Michael Carbone, and several members focused on Arizona’s technology and economic development agenda. Representatives from the Arizona Commerce Authority also participated.

Discussions centered on the policy decisions and public-private partnerships that have helped Arizona build a competitive footprint in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, aerospace, autonomous systems, and emerging technologies.

“Arizona’s growth didn’t happen by accident,” said Courtney Coolidge, executive vice president of the Arizona ��. “It reflects deliberate policy choices that prioritize certainty, competitiveness, and a regulatory environment where businesses can invest, innovate, and scale. We were glad to share what’s working with leaders from Missouri.”

Proud to host a delegation of Missouri policymakers at the �� today for a discussion on what’s driving Arizona’s growth, from regulatory certainty to infrastructure to how we’re approaching emerging industries.

Insightful conversation with AZ and MO legislative leaders and…
— Arizona �� (@AZ��)

The exchange comes as the Arizona �� has been pressing a broader push on digital economy policy, including its recently launched , which aims to strengthen the state’s position in artificial intelligence and emerging technology sectors.

Arizona’s legislative leaders framed the state’s approach as deliberate and long-term. “Arizona has made a conscious decision to lead on innovation rather than wait for other states to set the pace,” said Speaker Montenegro. “That kind of alignment and forward-looking policy environment allows industries to grow and scale here.”

Majority Leader Carbone pointed to the fundamentals underpinning that growth. “Arizona’s success in attracting major investment is tied directly to our focus on advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and supply chain strength,” he said. “Those fundamentals are critical to sustaining long-term economic momentum.”

Regulatory predictability came up consistently as a deciding factor for businesses. “Companies are looking for certainty,” said Rep. Weninger. “Arizona’s predictable regulatory environment and competitive tax structure give businesses the confidence to invest and expand.”

Sen. T.J. Shope emphasized that the state has worked to distribute economic development beyond major metro areas. “We’ve been intentional about making sure economic development isn’t concentrated in one region,” he said. “Infrastructure, water, and land use policies all play a role in supporting growth across Arizona, including in rural communities.”

“Arizona continues to attract new and emerging industries by staying focused on innovation and targeted economic development,” said Sen. Carroll. “That approach is helping position the state for the next phase of economic expansion.”

Rep. Wilmeth echoed that, pointing to Arizona’s light-touch approach to emerging technology regulation as a competitive differentiator. “We’ve taken a thoughtful approach to emerging technologies by avoiding premature regulation,” he said. “That flexibility allows innovation to develop while still ensuring appropriate oversight.”

The discussion also explored how elements of Arizona’s policy framework could be adapted in other states and how cross-state collaboration might strengthen the broader U.S. economy.

Victor Riches, president and CEO of the Goldwater Institute, framed the stakes broadly. “As emerging technologies continue to reshape industries, policy certainty and deregulation matter more than ever,” he said. “Arizona needs to ensure an environment where innovation can move forward.” The Missouri delegation included state Sens. Travis Fitzwater, Maggie Nurrenbern, Karla May, Barbara Anne Washington, and Jamie Burger, along with a policy adviser to Gov. Kehoe and representatives from the .

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EPA ruling spares Phoenix-area businesses from stricter air quality classification

Guest Contributor — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:15:24 +0000

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency this week finalized a ruling that shields the Phoenix-Mesa region from a more stringent federal air quality classification, delivering a significant win for Arizona businesses and capping a years-long effort to address a problem the state has long argued it didn’t cause.

The EPA determined that the Phoenix-Mesa area would have met federal ozone standards by its August 2024 deadline but for pollution coming in from outside the United States. Under a provision of the Clean Air Act known as Section 179B, the agency will not reclassify the region from “Moderate” to “Serious” nonattainment.

�մǻ岹��’s ruling is a win for Arizona’s economy and for commonsense policy.

A long-overdue acknowledgment that Arizona cannot be held responsible for pollution blowing across our borders from other countries.

Read ’s full statement:
— Arizona �� (@AZ��)

The distinction matters. A reclassification to “Serious” would have significantly tightened the regulatory screws on businesses — lowering thresholds for major emission sources, increasing offset requirements, and expanding air quality control obligations — all while adding complexity to permitting.

The case for the exemption rested on a straightforward argument backed by years of modeling: Phoenix’s ozone problem is largely not of Phoenix’s making. Independent modeling by both the Maricopa Association of Governments and the EPA found that approximately 80 percent of the ozone in the region comes from natural sources or emission sources outside the nonattainment area, including pollution transported from Mexico and Asia, and wildfire smoke.

MAG, the regional planning agency for metropolitan Phoenix, said it had been advocating for the exemption since the Biden administration. It formally submitted its demonstration to EPA in September 2025, and the Phoenix ruling marks the first time the EPA has used its Section 179B authority since Administrator Lee Zeldin rescinded prior guidance that had made the process difficult for states to navigate.

Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry, called the outcome long overdue. “For decades, Arizona’s businesses have done everything right,” Seiden said. “They’ve invested in cleaner operations, embraced new technology, and helped cut the region’s air pollution by roughly 70 percent since 1990 — all while our economy and population grew dramatically.”

The National Association of Manufacturers weighed in quickly after the ruling, saying the EPA decision gives Arizona’s manufacturers greater flexibility to grow while advancing environmental stewardship. The NAM also called on Congress to build on the momentum by modernizing the Clean Air Act’s permitting process, noting that manufacturers consistently cite Clean Air Act permits as the most burdensome approval process they face.

America's manufacturers should not be punished for out-of-state emissions from China and others. Today's decision on non-attainment provides Arizona's manufacturers greater flexibility to grow while advancing environmental stewardship.
— The NAM (@ShopFloorNAM)

said the ruling reflects the agency’s broader approach under Administrator Zeldin. “This action is yet another example of the Trump EPA making sure we are not punishing Americans for emissions from countries that do not have our same environmental standards,” Martucci said.

Under the final determination, the Phoenix-Mesa area remains classified as Moderate nonattainment and is not subject to reclassification requirements or the more burdensome permitting and offset requirements that would have come with a Serious designation. All other existing Moderate area obligations remain in effect.

Seiden said the �� would continue to watch the ruling closely. “We stand ready to vigorously defend this decision against any effort to undo it,” he said.

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Spotlight AZ: Polaris

Guest Contributor — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:52:04 +0000

From off-road vehicles built for Arizona’s rugged terrain to partnerships that support small businesses, public safety, and workforce development, Polaris Inc. has established itself as a leader in innovation and outdoor recreation. With a growing presence in the state and an active role in public policy discussions, Polaris continues to shape the future of powersports while investing in the communities it serves. In this �� Member Spotlight, J.R. Burke, senior director of government relations & legal – on-road, shares insights into the company’s operations, policy priorities, and commitment to Arizona.

What is Polaris?

Polaris has spent over 70 years designing, engineering, and manufacturing products that help people do more outside. We were founded in Roseau, Minnesota – a town about 10 minutes from the Canadian border. Since creating our first snowmobile in Roseau in 1954, Polaris has transformed from a regional manufacturer into a global powersports leader. Consistently redefining market segments through relentless innovation, we are best known today for our off‑road vehicles, snowmobiles, and marine brands. From the Polaris RANGER and RZR, to our other leading brands like the Polaris Slingshot and Bennington pontoons, our products are fan-favorites. At our core, Polaris is focused on building high-quality products that meet real‑world needs while being a strong partner to the communities where we operate.

Can you talk about your areas of focus (off road, on road, marine) and the markets in which you do business?

Polaris operates across three primary segments: off‑road vehicles, on‑road vehicles, and marine. Our off‑road vehicles—including side‑by‑sides and ATVs—are widely used for recreation, agriculture, ranching, land management, and public safety. Snowmobiles remain a strong business for Polaris, and we hold the #2 market share position in the industry. With its bold styling, our Slingshot vehicles offer distinctive three‑wheeled, open‑air on-road experience and are introducing new customers to powersports and Polaris. Through our Polaris Marine segment, we have the #1 pontoon brand in the market with Bennington pontoons, as well as Hurricane deck boats and Godfrey pontoons.

What makes Arizona a great place for Polaris to do business?

Arizona’s vast public lands and diverse outdoor landscapes offer exceptional opportunities for recreation. Polaris’ powersports products are uniquely built to meet the needs of Arizonans—whether their adventures take them onto trails, along the state’s scenic highways, or out on the water. Our network of independent dealer partners across Arizona play a critical role in bringing these experiences to life for our customers. In our work at the Capitol over the past several years, we’ve consistently met with legislators who share our commitment to supporting small businesses and manufacturers like Polaris. Their partnership helps ensure we can continue delivering the innovative products our customers expect.

Are there any policy priorities you’re focusing on in Arizona?

Polaris supports policies that encourage economic growth, protect access to public lands, and provide regulatory clarity for manufacturers and consumers alike. As a manufacturer representative on the Arizona OHV Study Committee, we have focused efforts to create policies that create safe experiences for motorized and non-motorized recreants on public lands and to modernize Arizona’s OHV laws to reflect advances in vehicle design that our customers expect. We value the working collaborations we’ve been able to establish with lawmakers and stakeholders alike to provide industry insight and support balanced solutions.

Do you partner with vocational/technical programs and higher education to hire talent?

Yes, Polaris actively partners with nonprofits, technical and higher‑education institutions to help build the next generation of skilled workers, both at Polaris and within our dealer network. These partnerships focus on manufacturing, engineering, skilled trades, and dealer service technicians—areas critical to long‑term economic growth and the future of the powersports industry. We support internship programs, curriculum alignment, and hands‑on learning opportunities that connect students directly to career pathways. For example, in 2025 Polaris invested $80,000 in our S.T.E.P. scholarships program to help support the next generation of powersports technicians. Additionally, more than 1,000 students across 45 schools also received free access to Polaris eLearning focused on the maintenance of Polaris vehicles.

How do some of your products support the farm and agriculture industry?

Many farmers and ranchers trust Polaris off-road vehicles as essential tools for daily operations. Our side‑by‑side vehicles are used for hauling, fencing, irrigation checks, livestock management, and general property maintenance. These vehicles are designed to be durable, reliable, and adaptable to tough working conditions, qualities that are critical for customers who count on their vehicle to help them get the job done. Polaris products help them be more productive while reducing physical strain and time spent on manual tasks. Supporting the farm and agricultural community is a natural extension for Polaris. In fact, last year we ran our Ag Advantage program, a promotional offer that was available only to farmers and ranchers as our way to show our support for this hard-working community. We will continue to look for ways to show our appreciation for them.

Can you talk about your defense and government vehicles, as well as your partnership with the federal government?

Polaris has worked closely with the U.S. Department of Defense and other state and federal agencies to deliver platforms used in border patrol, police, fire and rescue calls, disaster response, and worldwide supporting our military. We design and manufacture the most capable light tactical military vehicles available today with technology development and insertion for the battlefield of tomorrow. Our military vehicles have become force multipliers for expeditionary forces. Polaris is proud to have a dedicated Defense business that can leverage everything Polaris has to offer – for military forces worldwide. Almost half of the team are vets – ranging from elite special forces, helicopter pilots and military maintainers. Outside of our Defense business, our Government team is a trusted partner of many federal, state, and local government organizations, providing the most complete lineup of side-by-sides for public safety uses.

How does Polaris engage with the community?

Community engagement is an important part of how Polaris operates, particularly around responsible riding and helping to take care of the places our vehicles are used. We partner with local organizations, riding clubs, our dealers, and non-profits, like the National Forest Foundation, on projects such as responsible riding education, trail maintenance and improvements, and environmental stewardship initiatives. In Arizona alone, Polaris has donated over $125,000 through these types of programs. For example, last year, in partnership with the National Forest Foundation, we helped improve navigation, promote responsible riding, and helping protect natural resources through the production and installation of new signage in the Coconino National Forest and we have some more exciting projects coming up in Arizona later this year. These efforts help ensure public lands remain accessible, safe, and sustainable for multiple uses. Our approach is grounded in being a good neighbor and a long‑term community partner.

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Arizona unveils bold competitiveness playbook to protect economic momentum

Guest Contributor — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:16:20 +0000

Arizona’s decade of economic momentum now has a roadmap for what comes next. The Arizona �� Foundation and the Arizona Commerce Authority have jointly released , a comprehensive competitiveness playbook developed with input from hundreds of leaders across business, government, academia, and workforce development.

The initiative, chaired by David Rousseau, president of Salt River Project, and co-chaired by Sandra Watson, president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, and former Arizona State Treasurer Eileen Klein, outlines more than 50 actionable strategies spanning eight critical areas: business climate, workforce, education, energy, water, infrastructure, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

“Arizona’s success over the last decade didn’t happen by accident. It was driven by smart, focused policy decisions and strong collaboration across government, business, and philanthropy.”

— Danny Seiden, president & CEO, Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry

Five priorities emerged as most essential from the research and stakeholder engagement process that informed the report.

Five Core Priorities

1	Enhance Competitiveness Sharpen Arizona’s edge through expanded economic development tools and streamlined statewide zoning processes.
2	Accelerate Talent Development Strengthen education, training, and career pathways for high-wage, in-demand jobs.
3	Strengthen Critical Infrastructure Position Arizona as a top state for energy and water availability and affordability.
4	Spur Innovation Catalyze research, development, and faster technology transfer to drive entrepreneurship.
5	Preserve Quality of Life Drive down costs and leverage federal policy reforms to sustain Arizona’s competitive lead.

The playbook emphasizes that other states are actively working to replicate Arizona’s recent success, making a proactive, coordinated strategy essential. “Other states are not standing still — they are actively working to replicate Arizona’s recent success,” Rousseau said. “This forward-looking initiative helps identify where Arizona should focus its time, attention, and investment to protect its competitive advantages and ensure long-term economic strength.”

“Competitiveness today is about readiness — aligning workforce development, infrastructure capacity, and innovation in a way that reflects how real investment decisions are made.”

— Sandra Watson, President & CEO, Arizona Commerce Authority

Co-chair Eileen Klein, who spearheaded the project on behalf of the Arizona �� Foundation, framed ArizonaW1NS as both an honest assessment and a call to action.

“ArizonaW1NS shows what’s working, what needs attention, and where smart, disciplined action will help secure Arizona’s future,” she said. “Arizona’s momentum is real. Our responsibility now is to protect it, strengthen it, and prepare for what comes next.”

The initiative is supported through funding from the Arizona Legislature and Governor Katie Hobbs, along with additional contributions from Amazon, the Arizona Board of Regents, Arizona Public Service, and Salt River Project.

ArizonaW1NS will continue working with business leaders to periodically review the state’s progress, refresh priorities as milestones are achieved, and support competitiveness planning in communities across Arizona.

Business voices from across the state welcomed the initiative. Simer Mayo, CEO and founder of Valor Global, called ArizonaW1NS a reflection of a strong foundation: “Under the leadership of Arizona’s governor and Legislature, combined with the vision of the Arizona Commerce Authority and Arizona ��, Arizona has built one of the strongest economic development platforms in the country.”

Read the full ArizonaW1NS report at .

Image: DPPed, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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Arizona �� files amicus brief defending law tied to major development projects��

Guest Contributor — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:26:13 +0000

The Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry has filed an amicus brief in Maricopa County Superior Court defending the constitutionality of a state law designed to support large-scale economic development projects and protect private property rights.

The brief was filed in a lawsuit challenging A.R.S. § 9-461.19, legislation enacted last year that creates a framework intended to open mid-sized cities for major corporate headquarters and other significant development projects.

The lawsuit is widely viewed as tied to a proposed international headquarters project by Arizona-based public safety technology company Axon in Scottsdale. But the �� argues the case raises broader issues about property rights, regulatory certainty, and Arizona’s ability to attract major investments.

In its filing, the �� urged the court to reject a request for a preliminary injunction that would halt implementation of the law while the case proceeds.

“The ability to invest in and develop private property is fundamental to Arizona’s economic success,” said Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry. “When projects that have been properly approved can be tied up indefinitely in litigation, it creates uncertainty that makes it harder for businesses to invest, expand, and create jobs in our state.”

The ��’s filing emphasizes that the law is not limited to any single company or project. Instead, it establishes a classification for mid-sized cities intended to support economic growth and address development challenges that may arise in those communities.

The brief argues that population-based classifications used in the law are a common and constitutionally recognized legislative tool, and that Arizona courts have repeatedly upheld similar frameworks.

“Large employers will not invest billions of dollars in communities where approved projects can be stalled indefinitely through litigation,” Seiden said. “Protecting private property rights and maintaining regulatory certainty are essential if Arizona wants to remain competitive for major investments.”

Mike Bailey, general counsel & director of legal reform programs for the Arizona ��, said the case ultimately raises broader constitutional and economic questions.

“This case is about whether the Legislature can enact reasonable policies that support economic growth while respecting constitutional limits,” Bailey said. “The law reflects a rational policy choice by the Legislature, and courts have long recognized that population-based classifications like this are constitutionally legitimate.”

The �� said the outcome of the case could have implications beyond the current dispute, particularly as Arizona continues competing for large-scale investments and international headquarters projects.

In its brief, the �� argues the court should deny the request for an injunction and allow the law to remain in effect while the case proceeds.

Image courtesy ��

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Explainer: How HB 4115 and SB 1489 strengthen transparency and accountability in local initiative processes

Guest Contributor — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:50:12 +0000

House Bill 4115, legislation by Speaker of the House Steve Montenegro is scheduled for consideration by the full state House, while companion legislation in the state Senate by Sen. T.J. Shope is similarly ready for consideration by the full Senate.

Here’s a look at how the bills would align the local initiative process with the well-established processes at a state level and protect local economic development efforts.

Bills align local initiative processes with established statewide initiative processes

House Bill 4115, introduced by Speaker of the House Steve Montenegro, seeks to standardize the regulation of initiative and referendum measures across Arizona by expanding state-level requirements to municipal and county levels. A mirror bill, SB 1489 by state Sen. T.J. Shope, has been introduced in the Senate.

The legislation focuses on three primary pillars:

Increased transparency for paid petition circulators
Mandatory financial disclosures for spending-related measures
The creation of regulatory parity between state and local ballot processes

Supported by a broad coalition of the Arizona business community, the bill aims to protect the integrity of the ballot from out-of-state interests, support local decisionmaking, and provide voters with clearer information regarding the fiscal impacts of proposed local laws.

Key regulatory changes

HB 4115 and SB 1489 amend several sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes (Title 19) to ensure that the standards applied to statewide measures are nearly as practicable for local jurisdictions.

Paid circulator requirements

The bill introduces identification and disclosure protocols for paid circulators to ensure voters understand who is soliciting their signatures, similar to the protocols in other states.

Financial disclosure and revenue sources

A critical component for local fiscal management is the new requirement for measures that mandate expenditures. Any municipal or county initiative or referendum that proposes a mandatory expenditure, establishes a specific fund, or allocates funding must:

Provide a disclosure of the expenditure or allocation.
Include this funding disclosure within the 200-word initiative description provided to voters.

Economic impact and business community perspectives

The Arizona business community has signaled strong support for HB 4115 and SB 1489, viewing it as a defense against out-of-state activists who leverage local processes to advance narrow political agendas that may conflict with regional economic development.

Proponent coalition

The bill is backed by a diverse group of organizations, including:

Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry
Arizona Restaurant Association
Greater Phoenix ��
Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC)
United Dairymen of Arizona
Valley Partnership
Local chambers of commerce across Arizona

Leadership insights

Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona �� of Commerce & Industry: “These bills contain commonsense reforms that protect the integrity of the ballot, ensure voters know who is behind an initiative, and provide clearer information about proposals that would require new taxpayer-funded spending.”
Courtney Coolidge, executive vice president of the Arizona ��: Coolidge has noted that out-of-state activists exploit the lack of guardrails at the local level. The goal of HB 4115 and SB 1489 is to ensure state and local processes are “equally rigorous” to prevent economic strategies from being “sidelined.”

Case study in local volatility: The Marana data center dispute

Current litigation in the Town of Marana underscores the administrative and legal friction that the legislation aims to mitigate through clearer standards.

The conflict: Residents filed a lawsuit against the Town of Marana after the town clerk rejected a referendum targeting a proposed data center.
The technicality: The organizers behind the petition campaign argue that their submission was out of compliance and should thus be withdrawn. Supporters not affiliated with the organized referendum campaign, however, ��argue that the petitions cannot be withdrawn.
Business implication: Such disputes demonstrate how local economic development projects can be stalled by procedural ambiguities in the referendum process, highlighting the need for the consistent standards proposed in HB 4115 and SB 1489.

Public sentiment and voter data

Polling conducted by Cygnal in December 2025 indicates that the provisions in HB 4115 and SB 1489 align with a vast majority of Arizona voters:

90% believe ballot initiatives should be driven by Arizona residents rather than out-of-state organizations.
84% support requiring paid circulators to wear visible identification badges.
80% support requiring initiatives that mandate spending to identify a specific funding source.
70% support achieving parity between state and local initiative requirements.

The case for passage

Uniformity is priority: Standardization of initiative processes reduces the ability of activists to target smaller municipalities with less-regulated processes.
Fiscal accountability: Future local initiatives will be required to disclose potential costs of their proposals, potentially reducing the risk of unfunded mandates that impact the local tax base.
Bipartisan support: HB 4115 passed the House Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections Committee with a 5-2 bipartisan vote. SB 1489 was cleared by the Senate Judiciary and Elections Committee. Both bills are ready for consideration by the full House and Senate, respectively.
Grassroots efforts unaffected: Initiative campaigns by local residents are not affected by the provisions of the legislation.

Photo courtesy Elizabeth Jenkins, licensed as CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

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