The Common Sense Institute (CSI) Arizona, in collaboration with the Arizona Chamber Foundation, has released its latest “Job Killers” report. The analysis highlights the potential economic damage from proposed legislation in Arizona.
Why it matters:
The report identifies 72 bills from the 2024 legislative session that would have posed significant risks to Arizona’s business environment and economic growth. Of these, 20 have measurable impacts based on similar legislation in other states, while the other 52 are so new that their effects are difficult to estimate.
Key Findings:
– $37.2 billion+: Potential economic loss if all “job killers” were enacted.
– 540,000 jobs: Estimated job losses due to new costs and regulatory burdens these bills would’ve imposed.
– 16 enacted “job killers”: Colorado has passed similar bills, resulting in slower economic growth over the past five years.
– $9.5 billion: Economic growth Arizona could have lost over five years if it followed Colorado’s policies.
The big picture:
These bills could have led to substantial tax increases, legal and administrative burdens, labor cost hikes, and stringent environmental regulations, all of which would have hindered Arizona’s economic progress.
What they’re saying:
Glenn Farley, CSI director of policy and research: “The findings in this report serve as a warning. Even a few of these proposals could dramatically change Arizona’s growth trajectory. We need to prioritize policies that foster economic prosperity.”
Danny Seiden, president & CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry: “The ‘Job Killers’ report is a reminder of the dangers of misguided legislation. Arizona’s future relies on resisting harmful regulations and maintaining a business-friendly environment that supports innovation, investment, and job creation.”
The bottom line:
As other states continue to enact similar policies, this report underscores the importance of safeguarding Arizona’s status as a high-growth state by rejecting legislation that could undermine the state’s economic competitiveness.
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