Grand Canyon Times

The legislation previously faced near-unanimous opposition from the Democrats, but it is now undergoing reform and consolidation to pass through the Arizona Supreme Court.

An article from the Arizona Free Enterprise Club indicates that a decade ago, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was opposed by Democrats and a handful of Republicans. The conservative opposition may have been justified. Instead of fulfilling its intended purpose, it raised numerous red flags with reports alleging gross exaggeration of job creation. The ACA is currently under review and faces not only the same issues but also new ones, including wasteful trips funded by taxpayers solely to attract CEOs and extravagant meals and wine bottles that breach the Gift Clause.

In another report from the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes issued her legal opinion, declaring the Authority's CEO forums unconstitutional and warning against further spending or potential litigation. Although the Commerce Authority has previously avoided direct challenges concerning Gift Clause violations, recent clarifications by the Arizona Supreme Court have removed this defense. It confirms that programs based on anticipated economic development are indeed subsidies, as concluded by Attorney General Mayes. The unexpected cooperation between AG Mayes and Senate President Warren Petersen suggests that this process will be more than just a formality. It presents obstacles for the Authority while advocating for transparent and accountable government.

According to an article from the Arizona Commerce Authority, Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority stated: "2023 represented another incredible year of unprecedented growth for Arizona’s economy. We are grateful to Governor Hobbs, and our many government, education, industry and innovation partners statewide who continue to work alongside us to grow and strengthen Arizona’s economy. We look forward to furthering our rapid momentum in the year ahead!"

The same source reveals that in 2023, the ACA helped secure 95 projects from companies projected to create over 24,600 jobs. It also assisted in bringing over $10.3 billion into the state. This record-breaking year for attracting investments contributed to improvements in workforce development, infrastructure, startup collaborations, supply chain enhancements, and rural business expansion.