Government Affairs

The Quality Jobs Tax Credit program encourages business investment and fosters the creation of high-quality employment opportunities statewide. Quality Jobs achieves this goal by providing tax credits to employers who generate a minimum number of net new qualifying jobs and commit to a minimum capital investment in Arizona. AAED supports the reauthorization of this vital economic development tool, recognizing its importance in sustaining and advancing Arizona’s economic prosperity.

AAED advocates for sustainable policies and funding to bolster education and training programs, ultimately cultivating a thriving, qualified workforce in Arizona. Supporting a healthy innovation pipeline and a robust internship and apprenticeship ecosystem directly impacts the overall economic health of our state. AAED supports Arizona’s career and technical education districts and programs, working to elevate awareness among students about the benefits of career and technical education (CTE) and the opportunity to obtain in-demand industry credentials. A well-prepared workforce, characterized by a blend of post-secondary education and hands-on training, is essential for enhancing Arizona’s competitiveness in attracting and retaining high-wage jobs.

AAED supports the development, maintenance, and improvement of transportation infrastructure that drives business development and job creation. Additionally, we must incorporate technological advances when assessing transportation needs, as these innovations are crucial for modern infrastructure. By prioritizing infrastructure, we ensure Arizona remains competitive in attracting and retaining businesses, fostering economic growth.

AAED endorses programs and policies that encourage business expansion within Arizona, thereby strengthening our state’s competitive edge in attracting and retaining high-wage jobs. Moreover, AAED supports policies and investments that ensure reliable and affordable electric service, focusing on resource adequacy, price stability, and consumer protection—essential elements for Arizona’s ongoing economic success. AAED supports performance-based and return-driven policies that foster a diverse array of businesses to establish and sustain their presence in Arizona for the long term. This strategic approach is vital for enhancing Arizona’s competitive efforts in attracting high-wage jobs and stimulating capital investment.

To ensure Arizona’s competitiveness in an ever-changing global economy, it is essential for the state to continually assess and refine its economic development programs. These programs must align with Arizona’s strategic focus on attracting, growing, and retaining businesses in comparison to global counterparts. AAED’s membership firmly opposes any unnecessary changes that diminish or delay the effectiveness of existing, proven economic development tools and initiatives. Many companies are drawn to relocate or expand in Arizona precisely because of these essential programs. Maintaining consistency and competitiveness is paramount for Arizona’s long-term economic development success.

Water security is the foundation of economic prosperity. AAED supports efforts to strengthen Arizona’s water security amid Colorado River cuts, helping keep our state competitive through innovative solutions that develop and fund new long-term water supplies.

Most states have state funded job training programs. Arizona sunset its Job Training Program in 2017. The program was originally a state-funded and employer-tax-supported grant program administered by the Arizona Commerce Authority. AAED supports reinstatement of an Arizona Job Training Program to remain competitive with other states.