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鈥檚 proposed headquarters expansion in Scottsdale, which included plans for housing, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial development surrounding the company鈥檚 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 鈥渟pecial legislation鈥� tailored specifically for Axon鈥檚 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.

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

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 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry, which filed an amicus brief in the case, said the decision reinforces the state鈥檚 ability to compete for major employers and long-term investment.

鈥淭his ruling is about much more than a single project,鈥� said Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry. 鈥淎rizona鈥檚 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.鈥�

Mike Bailey, the 番茄社区鈥檚 general counsel and director of legal reform programs, said the ruling should result in additional clarity around the Legislature鈥檚 role in zoning and economic development policy.

鈥淭he 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,鈥� Bailey said. 鈥淭he 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.鈥�

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The Industrial Commission of Arizona voted last week to adopt strengthened workplace heat safety guidelines for employers statewide, delivering an outcome the business community called a practical, Arizona-driven solution to a genuine challenge.

The commission’s action follows nearly a year of work by the Governor’s Workplace Heat Safety Task Force, which brought together business, labor, and occupational safety experts to develop guidance grounded in real-world conditions. The Arizona 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry and the Arizona Manufacturers Council participated throughout that process, with Grace Appelbe representing both organizations.

Appearing before the commission, Appelbe urged members to support the task force recommendations, describing them as the product of genuine collaboration and the right fit for the state’s diverse economic landscape.

“The recommendations before you reflect a thoughtful, Arizona-specific approach grounded in real-world experience,” Appelbe told the commission. “They focus on practical measures 鈥� water, shade, rest, acclimatization, and training 鈥� while preserving the flexibility needed across different industries and job sites.”

The guidelines adopted by the commission build on the Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health’s existing Heat Stress State Emphasis Program, launched in 2023. In the months ahead, the commission will expand employer training on heat risks, encourage the development of workplace heat safety plans, and collect data on the effectiveness of heat safety interventions across the state. Commissioners plan to revisit the recommendations in December.

For Arizona’s business community, the outcome reflects a broader principle that worker safety and economic sustainability are not in conflict 鈥� but that the path to both runs through collaboration rather than mandate.

“That balance is critical,” Appelbe said in her testimony. “In other states, more rigid, one-size-fits-all mandates have created compliance challenges without necessarily improving outcomes. Arizona has taken a better approach 鈥� one that prioritizes safety while recognizing operational realities.”

The commission’s chairman described the vote as a beginning rather than an endpoint, noting that guidelines carry the advantage of taking effect immediately, allowing employers to act now while the state continues gathering data to inform any future rulemaking.

Appelbe told the commission that the Arizona 番茄社区 and Manufacturers Council are prepared to be active partners in what comes next. “We stand ready to work with the Commission and its staff on the distribution and implementation of these employer guidelines to ensure Arizona’s workers are informed and protected,” she said.

The Arizona 番茄社区 and Manufacturers Council have been engaged in the heat safety conversation since the task force was convened by executive order in 2025. Appelbe said the business community’s consistent goal throughout has been to ensure that any guidance coming out of the process works in actual workplaces 鈥� across manufacturing floors, construction sites, agricultural operations, and the full range of industries that make up Arizona’s economy.

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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.

The distinction matters. A reclassification to “Serious” would have significantly tightened the regulatory screws on businesses 鈥� lowering thresholds for major emission sources, increasing offset requirements, and expanding air quality control obligations 鈥� 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 番茄社区 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 鈥� 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.

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 番茄社区 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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From off-road vehicles built for Arizona鈥檚 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 番茄社区 Member Spotlight, J.R. Burke, senior director of government relations & legal 鈥� on-road, shares insights into the company鈥檚 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 鈥� 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鈥憆oad 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鈥憌orld 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鈥憆oad vehicles, on鈥憆oad vehicles, and marine. Our off鈥憆oad vehicles鈥攊ncluding side鈥慴y鈥憇ides and ATVs鈥攁re 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鈥憌heeled, open鈥慳ir 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鈥檚 vast public lands and diverse outdoor landscapes offer exceptional opportunities for recreation. Polaris鈥� powersports products are uniquely built to meet the needs of Arizonans鈥攚hether their adventures take them onto trails, along the state鈥檚 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鈥檝e 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鈥檙e 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鈥檚 OHV laws to reflect advances in vehicle design that our customers expect. We value the working collaborations we鈥檝e 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鈥慹ducation 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鈥攁reas critical to long鈥憈erm economic growth and the future of the powersports industry. We support internship programs, curriculum alignment, and hands鈥憃n 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鈥慴y鈥憇ide 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 鈥� for military forces worldwide. Almost half of the team are vets 鈥� 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鈥憈erm community partner.

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Arizona鈥檚 global economic profile soared in 2025 as the state posted record-breaking international trade and foreign direct investment figures, underscoring its emergence as a leading U.S. hub for advanced industries and global commerce.

According to from the Arizona Commerce Authority, the state鈥檚 exports and imports expanded significantly, with strong gains across high-tech sectors and an especially notable rise in trade with Taiwan.

Arizona companies exported $44.4 billion in goods in 2025 鈥� a 37 % increase over the prior year and among the fastest export growth rates in the nation 鈥� far outpacing the U.S. average. The state also saw massive increases in imports and international investment, creating thousands of new jobs statewide.

Key highlights include Arizona鈥檚 top rankings in several advanced export categories:

• #1 in Metal Ores ($2.7 B, +19.9 %)
• #3 in Computer Equipment ($9 B, +205 %)
• #5 in Semiconductors & Electronic Components ($6.3 B, +84 %)
• #8 in Medical & Control Instruments ($2.4 B, +14 %)
• #10 in Aerospace Parts ($5.6 B, +4.3 %)

These gains reflect Arizona鈥檚 continued strength in manufacturing, technology, and innovation, all sectors that are driving the state鈥檚 global export footprint.

鈥淎rizona has emerged on the world stage as a global economic powerhouse, leading to more family-sustaining jobs and generational opportunity for Arizonans,鈥� said Governor Katie Hobbs. 鈥淚鈥檓 proud that Arizona is setting the pace for innovation and technological progress and proving what鈥檚 possible when we lead boldly.鈥�

Taiwan鈥檚 rapid climb on Arizona鈥檚 trade chart

One of the most striking developments in the new data is the surge in economic exchange with Taiwan. In 2025, Taiwan surpassed both Canada and China to become Arizona鈥檚 second-largest trading partner behind Mexico, with total trade exceeding $21.2 billion.

This remarkable rise marks a major shift in Arizona鈥檚 global trade relationships and underscores the deepening economic ties between the state and one of the world鈥檚 most important technology and manufacturing economies. Led by key components and advanced technologies, Arizona鈥檚 imports from Taiwan rose sharply, while exports also expanded meaningfully.

The upswing with Taiwan reflects successful international trade missions, enhanced business partnerships, and increased cross-border investment activity. Earlier efforts by state leaders to promote Arizona鈥檚 workforce, innovation ecosystem, and business climate abroad have helped elevate the state鈥檚 global competitiveness, particularly in sectors like semiconductors and computing. The growing collaboration also mirrors broader geopolitical trade developments boosting tech-focused cooperation between the U.S. and Taiwan.

番茄社区 and Business Leaders Weigh In

Business and civic leaders highlighted the significance of these gains for Arizona鈥檚 long-term economic prospects. Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry, emphasized the role of sound public policy and a stable business climate in fueling trade growth.

鈥淎rizona鈥檚 growth in global trade didn鈥檛 happen by accident. It reflects years of smart policy, collaboration between the public and private sectors, and a business climate that gives companies the confidence to invest, hire, and expand here,鈥� Seiden said. 鈥淭hese record trade gains underscore why a competitive, predictable environment matters.鈥�

Sandra Watson, president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, noted that the state鈥檚 strategic emphasis on international engagement is paying dividends across industries, driving job creation and innovation opportunities for communities statewide.

鈥淎rizona鈥檚 global prominence has never been greater,鈥� Watson said. 鈥淥ur record-setting trade and investment reflect a bold strategy and strategic partnerships, leading to more jobs, innovation, and opportunity for communities across our state.鈥� 

Arizona鈥檚 global economic outlook

With more than $195 billion in foreign direct investment announced since 2020 and a robust pipeline of projects from international partners including Taiwan and Japan, Arizona鈥檚 role on the global economic stage continues to strengthen. The state attracted 55 new foreign investment projects in 2025 alone, projected to generate more than 25,000 new jobs.

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The state House Commerce Committee on Tuesday advanced HB 4026, legislation sponsored by Rep. Michael Carbone (R-Buckeye) that modernizes and strengthens a public infrastructure tool that has helped make Arizona a national leader in advanced manufacturing investment.

The bill, supported by the Arizona 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry, the Arizona Manufacturers Council, and a broad coalition of business and community leaders, ensures that Arizona communities have the infrastructure capacity necessary to compete for high-wage manufacturing projects.

Modernizing a proven program

Arizona鈥檚 Public Infrastructure Program was established in 2012 and has since helped secure billions of dollars in private capital investment, positioning the state as the nation鈥檚 leader in semiconductor manufacturing investment.

The program allows cities, towns, and counties to recapture a portion of construction-related state sales tax revenues generated directly by a qualifying manufacturing project and reinvest those dollars into public infrastructure improvements 鈥� including roads, water, wastewater, and reclamation systems 鈥� that support both the facility and the broader community.

During committee testimony, advocates pointed out that the program does not create new taxes and instead reinvests tax revenue generated by the project itself into infrastructure that makes the investment possible.

Addressing a critical cap

Under current law, total distributions under the program statewide are subject to a $200 million lifetime cap. But as supporters pointed out in the hearing, the arbitrary cap is rapidly being reached, putting current and future public infrastructure projects at risk of being underfunded and limiting Arizona鈥檚 ability to compete for the next generation of mega-projects.

鈥淭his program has worked in helping cities build the infrastructure they need to support these massive projects,鈥� Arizona 番茄社区 Executive Vice President Courtney Coolidge said. 鈥淲e don鈥檛 win these projects every day, but when we do, they鈥檙e a huge benefit to the entire state, supporting jobs, tax revenue, and small business.鈥�

The legislation replaces the lifetime cap with a $75 million annual cap, providing predictable, statewide access to the program. The bill also clarifies that payments are limited to the lesser of the state transaction privilege tax revenues generated from construction of the facility or 80% of the public infrastructure cost.

Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley told committee members the program was essential to her town鈥檚 ability to attract a huge LG Energy investment on a former state land trust plot.

鈥淚n order to build on that barren state trust land, the town needed to build supporting public infrastructure,鈥� she said. 鈥淏uilding the infrastructure from scratch was a very costly endeavor for the town and we needed to utilize the public infrastructure program to help us recapture some of the $84 million in public investment from revenues generated as a result of LG鈥檚 own state construction sales tax dollars.鈥�

Strengthening accountability and transparency

HB 4026 enhances oversight by requiring a detailed analysis of the anticipated direct and indirect revenues the state will receive as a result of constructing the manufacturing facility, which must be provided to the Arizona Commerce Authority.

The bill also requires development and intergovernmental agreements entered into under the program to be posted publicly on the Department of Revenue鈥檚 website, further reinforcing transparency.

Supporting high-wage jobs, long-term growth

Greater Phoenix Economic Council Vice President Tim Bourcet said that as Arizona competes nationally and globally to attract advanced manufacturing projects, particularly in semiconductors and other high-tech sectors, infrastructure readiness is often the deciding factor.

鈥淭he public infrastructure reimbursement program has been vital to the advanced manufacturing industry,鈥� he said, pointing out that the program has played in role in investments by companies like TSMC and Amkor, in addition to the LG project in Queen Creek. 鈥淢odernization is now a necessity to continue to be the number one destination for advanced manufacturing in the United States.鈥�

By modernizing the distribution cap while maintaining strong accountability measures, HB 4026 ensures that Arizona has the policy tools to remain competitive in the race to onshore advanced manufacturing.

The bill now advances to the Rules Committee and to reviews by each party鈥檚 caucus and then to a vote of the full House. Assuming passage, the bill will repeat the process in the state Senate in the coming weeks.

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Arizona鈥檚 business and manufacturing community is closely watching a new proposal from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that would restore a more cooperative, state-led approach to air quality regulation and remove Arizona from the Biden-era 鈥淕ood Neighbor Plan.鈥�

EPA late last month proposed approving Arizona鈥檚 State Implementation Plan (SIP) for the 2015 eight-hour ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards. If finalized, the action would resolve Arizona鈥檚 interstate transport obligations and allow the state to move forward under its own air quality plan rather than being subject to a broad federal mandate.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin framed the proposal as a course correction from prior federal overreach.

鈥淭oday, we are taking an important step to undo a Biden Administration rule that treated our state partners unfairly,鈥� Zeldin said. 鈥淚f the SIPs are approved as proposed, these states will be able to advance cleaner air now for their communities, instead of waiting for overly burdensome federal requirements years from now.鈥�

Relief from a one-size-fits-all rule

The original 鈥淕ood Neighbor Plan,鈥� finalized under the Biden administration, imposed new emissions requirements across 23 states, including Arizona, targeting power plants and a wide range of industrial sectors 鈥� from cement and steel manufacturing to chemical production, mining and pulp and paper mills.

Arizona, along with several other states, demonstrated through EPA-approved modeling that in-state emissions were not significantly contributing to ozone nonattainment in downwind states. Despite that data, Arizona faced partial disapproval of its SIP and inclusion in the federal rule.

That approach was paused in June 2024 when the U.S. Supreme Court stayed the rule, citing serious legal concerns. Subsequent federal court decisions also vacated SIP disapprovals for other states, adding uncertainty for employers and regulators alike.

The current EPA proposal would bring clarity and certainty, particularly for energy-intensive industries that depend on reliable power, long-term planning and predictable regulatory frameworks.

Manufacturers support cooperative federalism

Arizona manufacturers have long supported clean air goals while cautioning against regulatory approaches that fail to reflect state-specific conditions or economic realities.

鈥淎rizona manufacturers care deeply about clean air and healthy communities,鈥� said Grace Appelbe, executive director of the Arizona Manufacturers Council. 鈥淏ut broad federal mandates that ignore state-specific data risk driving up energy costs, disrupting supply chains, and discouraging investment. Approving Arizona鈥檚 state plan recognizes that we can protect air quality while maintaining a competitive manufacturing environment.鈥�

Business leaders have warned that the earlier federal rule could have accelerated power plant retirements or forced costly compliance investments without delivering proportional air quality benefits in states like Arizona.

What鈥檚 next

EPA鈥檚 proposal will be subject to a 30-day public comment period following publication in the Federal Register. The agency has indicated it will take additional, separate actions to address remaining states previously covered by the 鈥淕ood Neighbor Plan.鈥�

Image AI composite, using images courtesy CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons; CC BY 2.0; and CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

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Arizona employers are taking a proactive, collaborative approach to workplace heat safety聽that recognizes聽the realities of diverse industries and job sites across the state.聽

Gov. Katie Hobbs on December 31 announced that the Workplace Heat Safety Task Force had finalized and submitted its recommendations to the Industrial Commission of Arizona, delivering a set of Heat Guidelines for Employers grounded in real-world best practices and Arizona-specific conditions . 

The task force, which was convened by a 2025 executive order, brought together leaders from business, labor, and industry, along with occupational safety and health experts, to develop commonsense guidance for employers.  

The Arizona 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry and the Arizona Manufacturers Council participated in the process to ensure that employer perspectives were front and center throughout the discussions. 

The finalized recommendations focus on proven strategies to prevent heat-related illness, including access to water, shade, and rest; employee acclimatization; and heat safety training. Importantly for Arizona employers, the guidelines also clarify definitions, outline best practices for employer Heat Illness Prevention Plans, and include specific exemptions for emergency operations, recognizing that not all job sites or industries face the same conditions. 

For the Arizona 番茄社区 and the Arizona Manufacturers Council, participation in the task force was about ensuring that worker safety and economic sustainability go hand in hand. 

鈥淭his task force brought together employers, workers, and subject-matter experts from across Arizona to focus on what actually works in real workplaces,鈥� said Grace Appelbe, executive director of the Arizona Manufacturers Council and director of government affairs at the Arizona 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry. 鈥淭he recommendations reflect commonsense best practices many employers already use and provide clear, Arizona-specific guidance that prioritizes worker safety while recognizing the diversity of industries and job sites across our state.鈥� 

That emphasis on flexibility was a consistent theme throughout task force discussions, particularly for sectors like manufacturing, construction, utilities, and small business, where work environments, schedules, and operational demands can vary significantly. 

Next steps, ongoing implementation 

Following the task force鈥檚 work, the Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH) will take additional steps to implement the governor鈥檚 executive order, including publishing annual data on heat-related claims, complaints, and citations, and providing downloadable template heat plans to help employers put the guidance into practice. 

The ADOSH Advisory Committee is scheduled to review the recommendations at a public meeting on February 4 before they advance to the Industrial Commission for final consideration later this spring.  

Appelbe said that for Arizona鈥檚 business community, the Workplace Heat Safety Task Force demonstrates the value of collaboration over mandates.  

鈥淏y bringing employers, workers, and regulators to the same table, the state has produced guidance that improves safety outcomes without undermining productivity or imposing rigid, one-size-fits-all rules,鈥� she said. 

Appelbe said the Arizona 番茄社区 and the Arizona Manufacturers Council will continue to engage with state agencies and stakeholders as these recommendations move forward, ensuring that Arizona remains both a safe place to work and a competitive place to do business. 

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The Arizona 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry and the Arizona Manufacturers Council have formally submitted comments supporting a proposed determination by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that would recognize the role of international emissions in the Phoenix-Mesa region鈥檚 ongoing ozone challenges.

In comments filed December 19, the 番茄社区 urged EPA to finalize its proposed finding that the region would have met the federal 2015 ozone standard but for emissions originating outside the United States, a determination authorized under Section 179B(b) of the Clean Air Act.

For more than three decades, Arizona businesses and local governments have worked collaboratively to comply with increasingly stringent ozone standards. Since 1990, the Greater Phoenix area has repeatedly achieved attainment for prior ozone standards through aggressive planning, technology upgrades, and regulatory compliance.

That effort has delivered real results. Despite rapid population growth, increased vehicle miles traveled, and dramatic economic expansion, overall air pollution emissions in Arizona have declined by roughly 70% since 1990.

However, the 番茄社区 notes that since about 2016, additional local controls have produced diminishing returns. Significant reductions in local emissions have not resulted in corresponding improvements in measured ozone concentrations, which is a signal that local sources are no longer the primary driver of the problem.

Citing extensive modeling conducted by the Maricopa Association of Governments and reviewed by EPA, the 番茄社区 emphasized that approximately 80% of ozone affecting the Phoenix region originates from outside Arizona, including emissions transported from other states, Mexico, Asia, and uncontrollable natural events such as wildfires.

The modeling shows that even eliminating roughly 65% of local emissions 鈥� an infeasible and economically damaging scenario 鈥� would still fail to bring the region into compliance with the 2015 ozone standard. In practical terms, shutting down every industrial source and removing every vehicle would still not achieve attainment.

鈥淭he purpose of the Clean Air Act is to improve air quality, not to impose costly controls that deliver no meaningful public health benefit,鈥� the 番茄社区 wrote.

鈥淩eclassification of the region into a more severe nonattainment category would carry serious economic consequences, including project delays and increased regulatory uncertainty,鈥� Arizona Manufacturers Council Executive Director Grace Appelbe said.

Arizona has emerged as a global hub for advanced manufacturing, semiconductor production, artificial intelligence, and data infrastructure. Additional nonattainment penalties could slow or deter investments that are central to Arizona鈥檚 long-term economic competitiveness.

鈥淟et鈥檚 be clear: approval under Section 179B(b) is not a 鈥榝ree pass鈥� back into attainment,鈥� Appelbe said. 鈥淭he region would remain designated as moderate nonattainment and continue to meet all applicable Clean Air Act requirements.鈥�

Appelbe said the determination would prevent an automatic downgrade into a more punitive classification when the evidence shows that additional local controls would not solve the problem. Congress explicitly provided this mechanism to ensure environmental policy remains grounded in science and fairness.

The 番茄社区鈥檚 comments argue that EPA鈥檚 proposal reflects the 鈥渂est reading鈥� of the Clean Air Act, consistent with congressional intent and recent Supreme Court guidance requiring agencies to adhere closely to statutory text.

After reviewing the full modeling record, EPA concluded that the evidence supports the finding that international emissions alone account for enough ozone to push the region out of compliance 鈥� a conclusion the 番茄社区 says is supported by the weight of the science.

Finalizing the proposal, the 番茄社区 argued, would allow Arizona to focus limited public resources on strategies that actually improve air quality rather than pursuing ever-more-costly controls with no measurable benefit.

Arizona鈥檚 comments are part of a broader federal review process that has drawn input from other states facing similar air quality challenges, including Colorado, Nevada, and Utah, according to .

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With Congress weighing a slate of federal permitting reforms over the next two weeks, national and Arizona manufacturing leaders are urging lawmakers to modernize outdated processes that they say are slowing down job-creating projects in every corner of the country. 

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is calling the window the 鈥�,鈥� urging House members to advance several bills 鈥� including the PERMIT Act and the SPEED Act 鈥� aimed at streamlining federal reviews, clarifying the scope of environmental statutes, and shortening timelines for major infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects.  

NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons said momentum is building for bipartisan action. 

鈥淐ongress has an opportunity over the next 12 days to demonstrate strong, bipartisan momentum on comprehensive permitting reform,鈥� Timmons said in a statement. 鈥淢anufacturers urge policymakers to seize the moment and make it easier and more cost-efficient for manufacturers to get shovels in the ground on job-creating projects.鈥� 

For Arizona, the debate in Washington carries significant weight. The state is facing rising demand for power, advanced manufacturing capacity, and data-center infrastructure 鈥� all sectors that hinge on timely federal approvals. 番茄社区 leaders say lengthy permitting processes increase costs, deter investment, and make it harder for Arizona to meet workforce and energy needs tied to semiconductor manufacturing, AI development, and onshoring supply chains. 

Arizona 番茄社区: predictable permitting is essential for competitiveness 

Arizona 番茄社区 of Commerce & Industry President and CEO Danny Seiden said modernizing federal permitting is critical for Arizona鈥檚 economic future. 

鈥淢anufacturers can鈥檛 meet demand, onshore supply chains, or power new AI and data-center growth without a permitting system that works,鈥� Seiden said. 鈥淎rizona鈥檚 economy depends on major projects moving on predictable timelines. Congress should advance the PERMIT Act and the SPEED Act so companies can build the infrastructure and capacity our economy requires.鈥� 

Seiden added that Arizona has already seen projects slowed or complicated by federal bottlenecks, noting that stronger permitting coordination will help reinforce the state鈥檚 position as a national leader in advanced manufacturing. 

AMC: Federal uncertainty hits small and mid-sized manufacturers hardest 

Grace Appelbe, executive director of the Arizona Manufacturers Council, said modernizing federal processes would reduce uncertainty for Arizona companies, especially the small and medium-sized firms that make up the backbone of the state鈥檚 supply chain. 

鈥淟ong, unpredictable permitting timelines create real challenges for Arizona manufacturers trying to expand, upgrade equipment, or bring new technologies online,鈥� Appelbe said. 鈥淪treamlining these reviews will give companies more certainty, lower costs, and strengthen Arizona鈥檚 ability to compete for new investment.鈥� 

Appelbe noted that many Arizona manufacturers planning new facilities or energy upgrades face multi-agency review processes that can take years. 鈥淎 clearer federal framework would help every part of the supply chain plan more confidently,鈥� she said. 

National implications for energy and AI growth 

According to NAM, more than 80% of manufacturers say today鈥檚 permitting challenges hinder their ability to invest, and nearly nine in 10 report they would expand operations or hire more workers if the federal process were streamlined. Reforms under consideration would simplify Clean Water Act reviews, reduce duplicative federal studies, expand categorical exclusions, and accelerate environmental assessments needed for large-scale projects. 

For Arizona, business leaders say the stakes are especially high. The state is home to rapidly expanding semiconductor fabs, aerospace production lines, defense manufacturing, AI-driven data centers, and massive energy infrastructure needs, all of which depend on permitting predictability. 

What comes next 

The House is expected to take up several permitting reform bills over the next two weeks. NAM is urging lawmakers to advance the PERMIT Act and a series of companion bills this week, followed by the SPEED Act 鈥� legislation the organization calls a cornerstone of U.S. competitiveness in energy and emerging technologies 鈥� next week. 

Manufacturing leaders say Senate action will be essential in the new year to convert these efforts into lasting policy changes. 

For Arizona manufacturers and utilities preparing for dramatic load growth, 番茄社区 and AMC leaders say they will continue advocating for reforms that allow job-creating projects to move forward at the pace the economy demands. 

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