As Arizona legislators work to finalize the Fiscal Year 2026 state budget, the East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance (EVCCA) has stepped forward with a unified voice to advocate for fiscally responsible investments that will strengthen our economy and support the long-term prosperity of our communities.
Representing nearly 5,000 member businesses across eight chambers—Apache Junction, Carefree/Cave Creek, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, and Tempe—the EVCCA submitted a formal letter to Arizona Senators and Representatives outlining critical budget priorities that reflect the diverse needs of our state’s business community.
A Call for Responsible, Future-Focused Investments
The EVCCA commended the Governor and Legislature for their efforts to structurally balance the state budget and emphasized the importance of using one-time funds for one-time projects. With Arizona’s continued growth and evolving workforce needs, the letter calls for strategic investments in key areas:
Transportation Infrastructure: From the expansion of I-10 between Casa Grande and Phoenix to the development of new North/South connectors in the Southeast Valley, improving transportation is essential to the flow of commerce, the mobility of workers, and the drawdown of federal funding for regional infrastructure projects.
Workforce Development and Education: To prepare for the jobs of tomorrow, the EVCCA urged continued funding for early education, CTED programs, community colleges, universities, and the ASU New Economy Initiative. These efforts will help reskill our workforce for an increasingly tech-driven economy.
Proposition 123 and School Funding: With Proposition 123 set to expire in 2025, the EVCCA supports extending this critical funding mechanism to ensure long-term stability for Arizona schools.
Higher Education and Innovation: The EVCCA specifically endorses ASU’s funding request to accelerate training in fields such as cybersecurity, robotics, and digital technologies, positioning Arizona as a leader in the innovation economy.
Workforce Housing and Water Security: The letter also advocates for policies supporting attainable housing options and funding to protect Arizona’s allocation of Colorado River water—two essential issues for business retention and growth.
Working Together for a Stronger Arizona
The EVCCA’s recommendations serve as a roadmap for a resilient and competitive Arizona. By aligning public investments with private sector needs, we can build a stronger economy, enhance quality of life, and create new opportunities for Arizona residents and businesses alike.
To view the full letter and learn more about the EVCCA’s public policy efforts, click here.
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