Arizona Budget Developments

Flagstaff, AZ – Republican legislative leaders are proposing new individual and corporate income tax cuts to take effect in 2012. The proposal is part of a budget package presented to Governor Jan Brewer and GOP lawmakers. The developing package could also include asking voters to decide whether to temporarily raise the state sales tax. It would also give lawmakers new leeway to relax voter-approved spending mandates. Senate President Bob Burns says the proposed cuts are intended to encourage economic activity. Democratic leaders say the proposal is dangerous, and say in would force deep cuts to education, health care, and other programs.