News

Common Sense Institute: Arizona’s housing shortfall, supply challenges persist
“Despite improvements in vacancy rates and permitting, Arizona’s housing market continues to struggle with a mismatch between supply and demand. The report emphasizes a particular concern: four of Arizona’s 15 counties are not issuing enough building permits to keep pace with projected household growth, risking permanent shortfalls in housing supply.”
Queen Creek Sun Times, March 24, 2024
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Inflation in Pheonix Area Slows Down 
“However, inflation is coming down from very high levels in the metropolitan area. Glenn Farley, Common Sense Institute Arizona’s director of policy and research, said that inflation remains a concern. ‘Inflation in the greater Phoenix area remains below the national rate – a welcome change from 2022 and early 2023, when we were among the fastest growing regions in the country in terms of prices,’ Farley told The Center Square in a statement.”
Arizona Daily Independent, Cameron Arcand, March 21, 2024
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Arizona’s Housing Shortfall And Supply Challenges Continue Into 2024
“The Common Sense Institute (CSI) today released its latest Quarterly Housing Report, shedding light on the evolving landscape of Arizona’s housing market. While the report brings some positive news, including a reduction in the state’s housing shortfall from nearly 100,000 units in 2020 to approximately 67,000 units in early 2024, it also highlights significant ongoing challenges.”
Gila Valley Central, March 21, 2024
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Inflation in Pheonix Area Slows Down
“The Common Sense Institute’s inflation report determined that costs such as rent, gas, and eating out have seen major increases since December 2020, which they say reduced the purchasing power of a “typical Arizona family” by $11,200 a year than if inflation kept at a stable 2%.”
Arizona Sun Times, Cameron Arcand, March 18, 2024
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‘It’s going to get worse’: Lawmaker calls for action after sharing photos of Arizona Capitol overdose
“Previously, Gress has argued that one of the unaddressed issues with homelessness is addiction. He cited a Common Sense Institute study which found that 81% of deaths in people experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County were drug-related.”
Arizona Republic, Reagan Priest, March 16, 2024
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There Are No Silver Bullets to Solve the Homelessness Crisis
“A study by the…think-tank Common Sense Institute Arizona found that spending on homelessness in the Grand Canyon State tops $1 billion per year. The group looked at government and non-profit spending and found that Arizona has around 51,000 employees whose job, in some way, shape or form, revolves around homelessness.”
Arizona Mirror, Jerod Macdonald-Evoy, March 15, 2024
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In Era of Polarization, Let Data Lead the Way
“Arizona has charted a path in data-driven policymaking that should serve as an example to others. When I served in the Arizona House of Representatives, we leaned heavily into objective data to target disparities in the state’s education system by creating incentives and targeting funding to high-performing schools. The Common Sense Institute described it as ‘[providing] a direct financial incentive for schools to achieve measurable results.’“
AZ Capitol Times, Bob Robson, March 13, 2024
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Inflation in Phoenix Area Slows Down
“Glenn Farley, Common Sense Institute Arizona’s director of policy and research, said that inflation remains a concern. ‘Inflation in the greater Phoenix area remains below the national rate – a welcome change from 2022 and early 2023, when we were among the fastest growing regions in the country in terms of prices,’ Farley told The Center Square in a statement.”
The Black Chronicle, March 13, 2024
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Homelessness Crisis Worsens for Maricopa County Seniors as Elderly Struggle for Shelter
“Meanwhile, addressing the financial aspects, the Common Sense Institute (CSI) Arizona delved into the state’s spending on the homelessness crisis, which has surpassed a whopping $1 billion. Through a meticulous review of financial documents and engagements with local experts, the CSI team has aimed to quantify and understand the complexities of homelessness.”
Hoodline, David Martinez, March 12, 2024
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Homeless Spending
“The Common Sense Institute has released a report on spending related to homelessness in Arizona. The organization says that within Maricopa County, the range of spending per person experiencing homelessness is $22,159 to $70,203.”
Cronkite News, Sydney Witte, March 8, 2024
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Report: Arizona Homelessness Spending Near $1 Billion, Mostly On Housing
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona determines that spending on homelessness in the Grand Canyon State is roughly $1 billion. The think tank analyzed data from both the public and private sectors to see how much was going toward the issue, and the vast majority of the spending, $678 million-$807 million, was directed toward Maricopa County in recent years.”
Arizona Daily Independent, Cameron Arcand, March 3, 2024
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Want to help the needy? Tax credits, not government grants, work best
“A new study by Common Sense Institute Arizona reveals the massive positive impact these tax credits have for Arizona’s neediest citizens, nonprofit sector and economy. The insights from this study point a clear path forward for any other state to reap similar benefits in providing for its disadvantaged. “
Arizona Republic: Jeremy Beer and Cesar Chavez, December 5, 2023
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Arizona Homelessness Spending Near $1 Billion, Mostly on Housing
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona determines that spending on homelessness in the Grand Canyon State is roughly $1 billion. The think tank analyzed data from both the public and private sectors to see how much was going toward the issue, and the vast majority of the spending, $678 million-$807 million, was directed toward Maricopa County in recent years.”
Washington Examiner, Lily Larsen, February 29, 2024
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Report: Arizona Homelessness Spending Near $1 Billion, Mostly on Housing
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona determines that spending on homelessness in the Grand Canyon State is roughly $1 billion. The think tank analyzed data from both the public and private sectors to see how much was going toward the issue, and the vast majority of the spending, $678 million-$807 million, was directed toward Maricopa County in recent years.”
Herald Review, February 29, 2024
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Workers Welcome: Nebraska Legislators Cut Red Tape With Universal Recognition
“In Arizona alone, over 9,000  workers have been safely licensed through universal recognition since 2019. This includes thousands of contractors and tradesmen, hundreds of doctors and physician assistances, and numerous other professionals across a wide range of fields. In addition to making it easier for skilled workers to pursue their careers in Arizona, it is estimated that this reform alone will generate $1.5 billion in additional GDP over 10 years.”
Goldwater Institute, Heather Curry, February 29, 2024
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Report: Arizona Spends $1B Annually on Homelessness
“‘The relationship is clear – an emphasis on treating homelessness primarily as a housing problem has resulted in a massive increase in the population in permanent supportive housing, without reducing homelessness overall,’ the report states.” Katie Ratlief is the executive director of the Common Sense Institute. She says the billion dollars is mostly spent on housing.”
Yahoo! News, February 28, 2024
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Report: Arizona Homelessness Spending Neat $1 Billion, Mostly on Housing
“‘We can’t dispassionately prove this based on research we’ve done today, but it does correlate well with sort of the opioid epidemic,’ CSI Arizona’s Director of Policy and Research Glenn Farley, said at a media briefing on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the report says that the number of homeless people who are unsheltered has tripled since 2014, meaning that they are definitely on the streets as opposed to living temporarily in a government or nonprofit facility.”
Victoria Advocate, February 28, 2024
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Report: Homelessness Spending In Arizona Exceeds $1 Billion
“More than $1 billion is being spent in the state of Arizona to combat homelessness, but despite this substantial increase in spending, the homelessness population continues to increase and shelter beds are actually decreasing, according to the findings of a new comprehensive report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona (CSI).”
Gila Valley Central, February 28, 2024
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Report: Arizona Homelessness Spending Near $1 Billion, Mostly on Housing
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona determines that spending on homelessness in the Grand Canyon State is roughly $1 billion. The think tank analyzed data from both the public and private sectors to see how much was going toward the issue, and the vast majority of the spending, $678-807 million, was directed toward Maricopa County in recent years.”
The Center Square: Cameron Arcand, February 28, 2024
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Report: Arizona Spends $1B Annually on Homelessness
“Arizona spends $1 billion annually on homelessness in the state, according to a non-partisan research organization. The recently released report from Common Sense Institute Arizona can be viewed in-depth here. Those costs include things like shelter, treatments, food, and other services, coming to about $44,000 per individual.”
ABC15: February 28, 2024
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Battleground Reality: Anxiety in Arizona
“Just weeks ago, the Arizona Common Sense Institute calculated that, under Biden, the typical Arizona household now spends ‘a combined $23,768 more on food, housing, transportation, medical care, and other goods and services to buy the same stuff as they were buying three years ago.’ How many households can afford to just add tens of thousands of dollars in new expenses to their budgets, just to maintain the same quality of life?”
American Greatness: Steve Cortes, November 22, 2023
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Arizona earns title of ‘least charitable’ state in new study, here’s insight into ranking
“According to AZ Central, for the past nine years, only 5-7% of taxpayers from the state have contributed to charitable causes, as found in a study conducted by the Common Sense Institute Arizona. While the state is only one of the 11 states to have a tax credit to encourage people to donate more to charitable causes, the scheme is yet to deliver the results. Per the outlet, Arizonans get up to $1,892 in tax credits available for making donations to charitable causes.”
Media Entertainment Arts WorldWide: Poulami Sengupta, November 22, 2023
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Arizona Ranked ‘Least Charitable’ State, New Study Shows. Here’s Why
“A recent study conducted by WalletHub.com, a financial services organization, ranked Arizona last in the nation for charitable giving for the fiscal year. The organization also factors in volunteering and service contributions, in which Arizona was ranked 43. Previous studies have shown Arizona consistently trailing behind charitable services and contributions for the past nine years; 5% to 7% of Arizona taxpayers use charitable credit for qualified charities, according to a recent economic report from the Common Sense Institute Arizona.”
AZ Central: Coleby Phillips, November 22, 2023
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Arizona Chamber and CEO Seiden honored by the Common Sense Institute Arizona with Champion of Prosperity Award
“The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry and President and CEO Danny Seiden were recently honored by the Common Sense Institute Arizona with the group’s Champion of Prosperity Award, which signifies a person or organization’s dedication to promoting job creation and economic freedom. ‘There is no more effective voice at the Arizona Capitol on behalf of the business community and nobody fights harder to ensure that Arizona has the best economy in the country,’ said Katie Ratlief, executive director of CSI Arizona.”
Chamber Business News: Joseph Kavetsky, November 20, 2023
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Arizona Inflation Slows in October, Though Residents Still Pay Thousands More
“At 2.9%, year-over-year price inflation in the Phoenix metropolitan area is now just a third of its 9.0% reading in January of this year,” the report said. “Between August and October, Phoenix area inflation rates decreased 0.8 percentage points (local inflation numbers are published every two months); over the same period the year-over-year U.S. inflation rate decreased 0.5 percentage points from 3.7% to 3.2%.”
The Herald Review: Cole Lauterbach, November 15, 2023
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Arizona Inflation Slows in October, Though Residents Still Pay Thousands More
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona reviews federal inflation data from October. The research organization found most aspects of the state’s Consumer Price Index have slowed from being among the highest in the nation at 9% in January. The latest CPI data for the Phoenix metropolitan area shows inflation at a rate not seen since March 2021.”
The Center Square: Cole Lauterbach, November 15, 2023
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If Arizona Repeals its Right-to-Work Law, You Could Be Forced to Join a Union, Pay Dues
“The Common Sense Institute Arizona estimates that repeal of right-to-work will impose $15 billion and $18 billion of additional costs on Arizona companies, and listed it as a potential “job killer.” It is projected to reduce employment by 3.9% and real GDP by 4% over the next decade. Union progress is slow, and no workplace changes can be made in the absence of negotiations between the employer and the union representatives.”
AZCentral: Peter Clark, November 10, 2023
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Report: Arizona Tax Credit Programs Help Charities
“The Arizona Qualifying Charitable Organizations and Qualifying Foster Care Organizations tax credits have helped many organizations with their funding, according to a new Common Sense Institute of Arizona report. The report found that taxpayers can get up to $891 in credits for taking part in the programs, and this has led to an estimated $109 million contributed a year to charities.”
The Center Square, Cameron Arcand, November 3, 2023
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Nonprofit Expects World Series to Bring Economic Boost to Arizona Tourism
“Nonprofit Common Sense Institute Arizona says the state’s massive sports and tourism industry has thrived for years and that the World Series between the Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers is only adding to it. Not only are bars and restaurants seeing an economic boost, but it’s predicted that Arizona’s tourism industry will, too, with natural attractions around our great state 48. “
Arizona Family News 3TV/CBS 5, David Caltabiano, November 1, 2023
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How Much are Arizonans Spending on Groceries? Hint: It’s More Than The National Average
“Katie Ratlief, the executive director of the Common Sense Institute in Arizona, said in their newest inflation report published in January 2024 that the Phoenix metro area has seen a declining rate of inflation for the last three periods in a row. ‘That doesn’t mean inflation’s necessarily going down, it just means the increase is slowing down … So that is good news,’ she said. For the first time since 2021, Ratlief said Arizona is starting to see a rate that is lower than the U.S. rate of inflation. Ratlief said it would take 27 months of declining rates to reach a 2% rate of inflation.”
Arizona Republic: Abigail Celaya, January 30, 2024
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Arizona Kids’ Education Under Attack from State’s Own Governor
“A May 2023 Common Sense Institute report found 56,000 participating students; in the months since, the number has risen to over 73,000. ‘The median income of families in the ESA program as of December 31, 2022 is about $60,600,” the report noted. “The median income of families in Arizona with at least one child is $69,700. Meaning, on average, the typical family receiving an ESA is less well-off than the median Arizona family.'”
Yahoo! News: J.D. Tuccille, January 24, 2024
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9,000 Arizonans and Counting Free to Work Thanks to Goldwater-Led Universal Recognition
“Universal recognition isn’t just a commonsense reform—it also makes good economic sense. A recent study published by the Common Sense Institute estimated the economic impact of universal recognition in Arizona would increase the state’s GDP by $1.5 billion over 10 years, and bring in nearly 16,000 additional workers. Earlier this year, the Goldwater Institute released a special analysis of the broader economic implications of Arizona’s reform, including the impact on its labor market and population growth.”
Goldwater Institute: Heather Curry, January 23, 2024
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Will Arizona Legalize Its Tamale Black Market This Year
“Last year’s legalization bill would have generated $55.3 million in new annual food sales, according to a Common Sense Institute estimate. But Arizona isn’t just leaving revenue on the table by keeping “potentially hazardous” homemade food sales illegal—it’s keeping a harmless market criminalized and keeping hardworking entrepreneurs from reaching their full potential.”
Reason: Fiona Harrigan, January 19, 2024
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Politics Unplugged Panel Discusses Arizona’s ESAs, Transparency, Accountability
“One organization that does do dynamic modeling is the Common Sense Institute. They’re agnostic on the policy of ESAs but they did find that there is a savings when we see enrollment declines in traditional schools and students moving into the ESA program. I think the bigger point to me is we should spend more on education, on all education, and we should give parents and families more options.”
Arizona’s Family, Politics Unplugged: Daniel Scarpinato with Dennis Welch, January 15, 2024
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The Economy is Improving Under Biden. But Many Voters Aren’t Giving Him Credit.
“Due to inflation, it cost an Arizona family over $2,700 a year more to purchase the same goods and services last August as it would have cost in August 2022, according to an analysis in September by the nonpartisan Common Sense Institute. The sharpest increases came in distinct sectors, including gas prices, which rocketed higher in early 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine, and have since fallen back to 2021 levels.”
The Washington Post: Sabrina Rodriguez, January 14, 2024
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How to Fix Arizona’s Budget Hold – Without Decimating Services
“Simply put, Arizona’s spending has recently grown faster than our economy. A new report by the Common Sense Institute provides a path for lawmakers to address this in a responsible way. Here are the highlights: Continue Proposition 123 distributions: Passed by voters in 2016 to provide more money to K-12 education from the state’s Land Trust, Proposition 123 is set to expire. This will shift roughly $300 million in K-12 spending annually to the taxpayers.”
Arizona Republic: Katie Ratlief, January 12, 2024
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Gov. Hobbs Wants to Control ESA Program
“On the other hand, the Common Sense Institute has made a compelling argument that the program will result in cost savings. While the state spends over $12,000 per student in public schools, a typical ESA award for non-disabled students is only $7,000. The institute concludes that the reduced attendance at public schools will lead to net aggregate statewide education cost savings exceeding $274 million.”
Arizona Politics Newsletter, January 3, 2024
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Arizona Republicans Tout Dependent Tax Rebate to Hit Bank Accounts Soon
“The inflation rate from August 2022 to August 2023 in the Phoenix Metropolitan area is 3.7%. According to a Common Sense Institute of Arizona report, this is on par with the national average, which is a welcomed update after being higher than the national average for 29 months in a row. “
The Center Square, Cameron Arcand, October 16, 2023
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Arizona Hospitality Careers Hub Launches to Connect Job Seekers With Meaningful Tourism Careers
“According to research conducted by the Common Sense Institute in 2022, the sports and tourism sector contributed $24.2 billion to Arizona’s Real Gross Domestic Product. The research also found that over 360,000 Arizonans are directly and indirectly employed by Arizona’s sports and tourism sector.”
Arizona Digital Free Press, October 16, 2023
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Report: Record-spending Arizona budget outpacing revenue
“‘Now, with a one-time cash shortfall and a general slowdown in revenues (not just in income tax, but other taxes like sales tax that were not cut), there’s a rush to blame only the income tax and the flat tax,’ Farley, who was Ducey’s chief economist, added. ‘This is ironic when the flat tax was phased in over three years and gated behind revenue triggers, while the large spending increase this year was done all at once and lump sum.'”
Prescott eNews, Cameron Arcand, October 16, 2023
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Report: Record-spending Arizona budget outpacing revenue
“‘This is a spending problem and a general revenue problem, not a tax cut problem,’ Common Sense Institute of Arizona’s Director of Policy and Research Glenn Farley said in an email. ‘Spending is way up – $8 billion since FY17, and more than $2 billion spending increase in just the last year. For context, the income tax cuts re just $1.5 billion over three years.'”
Washinton Examiner, Cameron Arcand, October 13, 2023
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Issue Brief: State Approaches to Universal Licensing Recognition
A 2022 study from the Commonsense Institute Arizona projects that the legislation will increase employment by 15,991 workers, the population by 44,376 people, and the gross domestic product (GDP) by at least $1.5 billion, all by 2030. “
America First Policy Institute, Rachel Wallen Oglesby and Matthew Lobel, October 9, 2023
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After Running Ahead of National Rate for 29 Months, Inflation Finally Slows in Arizona
“A new study from Common Sense Institute Arizona reveals that Arizona’s rate of inflation has dropped to the national average after 29 consecutive months of running above it. Year-over-year price inflation for the last 12 months in metro Phoenix is now at 3.7%, following a monthly inflation rate of .04% for the metro area in September.”
Chamber Business News, Joe Pitts, October 4, 2023
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New Report Details Economic Benefits of Arizona’s First-In-The-Nation Universal Licensing Recognition
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona (CSI) details the positive economic benefits of HB 2569, a 2019 bill and law that made Arizona the first state in the nation to adopt universal occupational licensing recognition. Since its passage, the state has issued more than 8,000 licenses that would not have been furnished without the legal enshrinement of reciprocity.”
Chamber Business News, Joe Pitts, October 3, 2023
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How pandemic-related learning loss may hurt Arizona’s economic future
“Arizona could have thousands fewer high school and college graduates and an economy hundreds of millions of dollars smaller if efforts to reverse pandemic-related learning loss are not successful. Those are among the findings of a new report from the Common Sense Institute Arizona.”
91.5 KJZZ, Mark Brodie, September 21, 2023
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Universal Licensure Law Continues to Economically Benefit Arizona
“In addition to the number of licenses issued, the Common Sense Institute of Arizona issued a new 2023 report that the law has helped foster economic growth. The law, also known as H.B. 2569, was signed into law by former Gov. Doug Ducey in 2019. Since it became effective in late 2019, the institute estimates that 13,100 jobs have been “created or supported” as a result, and $1.3 billion in generated ‘annual economic activity.'”
The Center Square: Cameron Arcand, September 21, 2023
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New study predicts learning loss will shrink Arizona’s economy by billions
“A new study predicts Arizona’s economy will shrink if learning loss isn’t reversed. This comes after test scores dropped to historic lows following the COVID-19 pandemic. Common Sense Institute Arizona, a non-partisan organization, said it will take 10 to 15 years to understand the full impact, but project major losses if current trends aren’t corrected.”
NBC News 12: Gabriella Bachara, September 19, 2023
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Report: COVID learning loss could cost Arizona 18,000 high school grads by 2032
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute Arizona estimates a possible 18,419 fewer high school graduates by 2032 and 26,281 fewer college graduates in 2026 in Arizona stemming from poor standardized testing scores in the aftermath of the pandemic. Specifically, 4th and 8th-grade reading scores dropped by 0.2% and 0.4% in Arizona between 2019 and 2022, citing data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress. “
The Lion: Cameron Arcand, September 18, 2023
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Arizona students’ learning loss could cost state’s economy billions, report says
“New research from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona, a think tank committed to growth and market economics, dove into how learning loss will impact the state of Arizona in-particular. Learning loss will not only deprive students of knowledge and learning, but contribute negatively to the state’s growth, and human flourishing, they say.”
Chamber Business News: Joe Pitts, September 18, 2023
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COVID learning loss, poor test scores could cost Arizona 18,000 high school grads by 2032: report
“‘As we have suggested, it is possible for states to ameliorate the impacts on high-school graduation rates through policy changes relaxing standards. However, graduation alone does not imply college- or career-readiness, and lower NAEP scores generally correlate with reduced rates of college completion,’ the report states.”
Just The News: Center Square Staff, September 17, 2023
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Report: COVID Learning Loss Could Cost Arizona 18,000 High School Grads by 2032 
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute Arizona estimates a possible 18,419 fewer high school graduates by 2032 and 26,281 fewer college graduates in 2026 in Arizona stemming from poor standardized testing scores in the aftermath of the pandemic. Specifically, 4th and 8th-grade reading scores dropped by 0.2% and 0.4% in Arizona between 2019 and 2022, citing data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress.”
Center Square: Cameron Arcand, September 15, 2023
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New reports show how deeply the pandemic hurt students. Is anyone listening? 
“A report from Common Sense Institute Arizona paints a similar picture — and an even bleaker future — for our state if we don’t turn this around. It estimates that Arizona could expect roughly 18,000 fewer high school graduates and about 26,000 fewer college graduates in coming years if pandemic losses remain permanent.”
AZ Central: September 14, 2023
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New Report: Failure to Launch: The Social and Economic Impacts of K-12 Learning Loss Since 2020 
“The Common Sense Institute Arizona released a new report titled “Failure to Launch: The Social and Economic Impacts of K-12 Learning Loss Since 2020” that sheds light on the far-reaching consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on K-12 education and its ripple effects on the economy and society.”
Gila Valley Central: September 14, 2023
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Over 8,000 Free to Work in AZ Thanks to Goldwater-Led Universal License Recognition 
“A recent study published by the Common Sense Institute estimated the economic impact of universal recognition in Arizona would increase the state’s GDP by $1.5 billion over 10 years, and bring in nearly 16,000 additional workers. Earlier this year, the Goldwater Institute released a special analysis of the broader economic implications of Arizona’s reform, including the impact on its labor market and population growth.”
Goldwater Institute: Heather Curry, September 12, 2023
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Fact-Checking Save Our Schools on Vouchers 
“According to a report by Common Sense Institute Arizona, public district school enrollment “has fallen precipitously [since 2019] and is down more than 70,000 students against the last pre-pandemic projections of the non-partisan Joint Legislative Budget Committee…the data suggests changes since 2020 may reflect not an overall ‘loss’ of students, but a demand shift away from traditional public district schools.”
AZ Capitol Times: Rachel Macleod, September 1, 2023
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Local Opinion: Arizona Families Tax Rebate provides critical financial relief from difficult economic times
“According to data released last month by Common Sense Institute Arizona, the typical Arizona household has spent a combined total of $21,266 more on food, housing, transportation, medical care and other goods and services since the end of 2020.”
Arizona Daily Star: Sen. Justine Wadsack, July 19, 2023
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Late Rep. Jim Kolbe Honored With Bill in Congress, Fellowship
Common Sense Institute Arizona, a think tank dedicated to economic growth, sound fiscal policy, and individual opportunity, honored Kolbe by launching a new fellowship in his name: The Honorable Jim Kolbe Free Enterprise Fellowship. ‘Thanks to Congressman Jim Kolbe’s hard-work and determination, Arizona is now in prime position to lead America in the 21st century economy – but we must continue to build upon his great legacy by promoting what he stood for,’ CSI AZ said.”
Chamber Business News: Joe Pitts, July 12, 2023
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Arizona’s Economy Dodges Potential $9.5 Billion Setback, Study Finds
Arizona’s economic environment could have been significantly less competitive had several legislative proposals been enacted this year, according to a joint report by the Common Sense Institute (CSI) Arizona and the Arizona Chamber Foundation.The study examined 67 legislative proposals from the 2023 session, dubbed “job killer” bills for their potential negative impact on employment. If passed, these proposals could have resulted in a $9.5 billion setback to Arizona’s economy and a loss of approximately 114,000 jobs.”
Chamber Business News: Michael Kittilson, July 13, 2023
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Tale of Two States’ Policies: Comparing Arizona and Colorado Economies in Recent Years
Partnered with the Arizona Chamber, the Common Sense Institute of Arizona used research from partners in Colorado to estimate the potential impacts on Arizona’s economic prospects of enacting some of the policy ideas within the “job killer” bills, according to the CSI Arizona report. CSI’s report analyzed 67 bills and found that if enacted, they would create an additional $25 billion in costs for businesses, resulting in a $9.5 billion decrease in Arizona’s economy.”
Center Square Arizona: Lauren Scott, July 12, 2023
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Want the Facts About Arizona’s ESA Program? 
“Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI AZ), a non-partisan, non-political research organization that focuses on fiscal and economic policy issues, analyzed the data and published a report about the program’s growth, the state budget and K-12 enrollment trends. CSI AZ found it is, in fact, lower-middle and middle-income families that utilize universal ESAs the most. The average income of an ESA family is just $60,600 per year, while the average Arizona family has an income of over $69,000 per year.”
AZ Capitol Times: Jason Gaulden and Katie Ratlief, July 6, 2023
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Arizona’s Health Care Sector Growing at Rapid Pace With Demographics Playing a Role
“Arizona’s health care sector is incredibly important to the state’s economy, and a new report finds it’s expected to keep growing. That report was done by the Common Sense Institute, which measured the industry’s impact. ‘The health care sector is the largest single sector in the state,’ CSI Research Director Glenn Farley said in an interview with KTAR News 92.3 FM. ‘It’s between 10-20% of the state’s total economy.'”
KTAR News 92.3 FM: Luke Forstner, August 8, 2023
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The War on Tamales
“There were nearly 15,000 registered home chefs in Arizona as of March 2023, according to the Common Sense Institute’s Arizona chapter. But the veto means that many more Arizonans—Maria included—will have to keep laboring in the shadows. Paul Avelar, managing attorney at the Institute for Justice’s Arizona office, anticipates that the veto ‘will hurt thousands of hardworking Arizonans who simply want to make an honest living or supplement their income.’ ”
Reason: Fiona Harrigan, May 24, 2023 
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Arizona Manufacturing Sales Skyrocket to $77.6 Billion in 2022
“According to a groundbreaking new report by the Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI), Arizona’s manufacturing industry is on fire, with a staggering $77.6 billion in sales for 2022, up almost 40% from 2017. Manufacturing now accounts for around 9% of the state’s GDP and 6% of total employment, as Arizona experiences unprecedented growth. And while the state’s manufacturing boom happened earlier in the 2010s, the report shows that the passage of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act in 2017 sent the sector into overdrive.”
AZ Big Media: Michael Kittilson, May 16, 2023 
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New Report Finds That Arizona’s Highest Performing Schools May Start Missing Out on Funding
“Research group Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSIAZ) released a new report Monday that found Arizona’s highest-performing schools may start receiving less state funding moving forward as the new state budget is set to repeal a program that funded schools based on results. ‘We hope the report sparks a conversation about the benefits of funding outcomes in K-12. We believe the report lays out a case for focusing future investment on achievements. And, policymakers will need to consider the impact that the cut to results based funding will have on high performing schools, especially those low-income, high-performing schools, after the one-time money in this year’s budget expires next year,’ said CSIAZ Executive Director Katie Ratlief.”
The Arizona Sun Times: Neil Jones, May 12, 2023 
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Housing costs keep Phoenix inflation near nation’s highest
“‘Shelter tends to be a lagging measure of home and rental prices and has continued rising in Phoenix even as the housing market itself has been cooling,’ CSI Arizona noted. ‘These large increases (+0.7% in April, month-over-month) are keeping overall prices in the Phoenix area so high relative to the broader US.’ Miami and Tampa Bay, Florida, were the only metropolitan areas with higher inflationary rates than Phoenix.”
Center Square: Cole Lauterbach, May 11, 2023 
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Event examines policy decisions over course of last decade that have contributed to economic growth
“A decade-long journey of growth, resilience, and determination – that’s the story of Arizona’s economy, which has surged in growth over the last several years, becoming a national beacon of success. At the heart of this narrative lies a simple yet powerful message: policy matters. This principle was echoed throughout the Coffee and Common Sense event hosted Tuesday by the Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI), as business leaders, policy experts, and legislators gathered to examine the state’s rapid economic development and the critical factors needed to maintain its momentum on the global stage.”
Chamber Business News: Michael Kittilson, May 3, 2023 
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Arizona Spends Less Per Pupil Funding Vouchers for Private Schools Than for District Schools
“Spending less per student saves the state budget, it doesn’t bankrupt it, as the governor claims. A recent Common Sense Institute Arizona study proves that fact. Nevertheless, Hobbs now feigns outrage. ‘The school voucher program in its current form is not sustainable, and Republican legislators need to explain why they are forcing this runaway spending on Arizona taxpayers,’ Hobbs tweeted. She forgot to explain why she approved ESA spending in the most recent budget. The buck stops with those perfidious Republican legislators, not the governor who signed it.”
Arizona Republic: Jon Gabriel, June 6, 2023
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School Choice Saves Arizona Money
“A new report by the Common Sense Institute finds that ‘current enrollment in Arizona public district and charter schools combined is over 80,000 students below pre-pandemic projections,’ producing a savings of $639 million. Arizona’s population is growing, so the vast majority of those students left for private or home schools, for which they could avail themselves of Arizona’s two private choice policies. In addition to the 58,000 students using education savings accounts, last year school tuition organizations issued more than 32,000 tax-credit scholarships.”
Wall Street Journal: Jason Bedrick and Corey DeAngelis, June 4, 2023
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Arizona Officials Offer Heated Responses About School Choice Cost Projection
“The nonprofit Common Sense Institute Arizona’s May 26 report found an estimated $639 million savings from the statewide equalization formula due to less-than-expected public school enrollment growth since the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s based on current ESA enrollment. Participants in the ESA program also come from households with incomes lower than the median Arizona family. The report found the median income of families in the ESA program as of Dec. 31, 2022, is about $60,600, while the median income of families in Arizona with at least one child is $69,700.”
Prescott eNews: Cole Lauterbach, June 4, 2023
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Arizona Officials Offer Heated Responses About School Choice Cost Projection
“The nonprofit Common Sense Institute Arizona’s May 26 report found an estimated $639 million savings from the statewide equalization formula due to less-than-expected public school enrollment growth since the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s based on current ESA enrollment. Participants in the ESA program also come from households with incomes lower than the median Arizona family. The report found the median income of families in the ESA program as of Dec. 31, 2022, is about $60,600, while the median income of families in Arizona with at least one child is $69,700.”
The Center Square: Cole Lauterbach, June 1, 2023
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Arizona manufacturers’ sales skyrocket to $77.6 billion in 2022 according to new report
“According to a groundbreaking new report by the Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI), Arizona’s manufacturing industry is on fire, with a staggering $77.6 billion in sales for 2022, up almost 40% from 2017. CSI is a nonpartisan research institute that uses precise econometric analyses to bridge the gap between economic development and public policy. Manufacturing now accounts for around 9% of the state’s GDP and 6% of total employment, as Arizona experiences unprecedented growth. And while the state’s manufacturing boom happened earlier in the 2010s, the report shows that the passage of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act in 2017 sent the sector into overdrive.”
Michael Kittilson Chamber Business News. April 27, 2023 
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HB2509 ‘Tamale Bill’ Fails Override Vote
“A nonpartisan research company, Common Sense Institute of Arizona, reported the bill could’ve potentially generated 55 million dollars in revenue. Both Republicans and Democrats were on board with the bill until Governor Hobbs vetoed it. Republicans tried to override the veto today, but the vote did not pass.”
ABC 9 Tucson KGUN Reyna Preciado, April 25, 2023 
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AZ economic study is good omen for ’24 Super Bowl
“Now, research from Common Sense Institute Arizona is demonstrating how those professional sports teams and major events like the Super Bowl are helping Phoenix expand its tourism industry and have the same effect in Las Vegas on a larger scale. ‘We believe that there’s a symbiotic relationship between a strong sports and tourism industry within a state’s economy,’ said Katie Ratlief, executive director at CSI. Along with hosting Super Bowl 57 in February, Phoenix also hosted a major golf tournament on the same weekend, while enjoying a full slate of spring training baseball.”
NBC 3 News KSNV Steve Wolford  April 24, 2023 
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Arizona’s ‘super season’ showing early financial promise
“According to a February report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona, a nonpartisan research organization promoting the state’s economy, 6.4% of Arizona’s total economy comes from the sports and tourism sector. This means anything tied to travel and observing or participating in sporting events factors into Arizona’s rapidly growing sports and tourism sector. CSI only expects that number to grow.”
Daily Independent: Haley Smilow April 22, 2023 
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Businesses community and education advocates urge legislators, governor to preserve Results-Based Funding for education
“Lisa Graham Keegan, vice chair of the board of directors at the Common Sense Institute, however, said that Results-Based Funding supported the very communities which Gov. Hobbs highlighted in her State of the State address. ‘A key feature of Results-Based Funding from inception has been to double the reward amounts to schools in traditionally lower-income communities,’ Keegan said. ‘The work here is critical, and the investment has helped these highly successful educators expand to serve even more of the students trying to get into their schools.'”
Chamber Business News: Craig Ruiz April 6, 2023 
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The Veto Queen: Governor Katie Hobbs Spends First 100 Days Fighting Right-Wing Attacks
“And while a quarter of Republicans approve of her job performance, another quarter is reserving judgment. But these numbers don’t tell the whole story, according to Daniel Scarpinato, the Republican former chief of staff to Governor Doug Ducey who now works as a strategic advisor to the Common Sense Institute in Phoenix. ‘I wouldn’t put too much stock in the poll,’ Scarpinato told New Times. ‘Her numbers are pretty weak. These have been a pretty bad three months for her.'”
Phoenix New Times: Elias Weiss April 5, 2023 
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Phoenix-area housing programs aim to close the gap for people with autism
“The move was not as easy as he thought it would be. From a financial standpoint it was doubtful that he would finally be able to live on his own, as home prices in 2021 were 22% higher than the year prior, and over the first six months of 2022, prices rose another 24%, according to Common Sense Institute Arizona. Despite the uncertainty, the former First Place Transition Academy graduate made the move nearly 15 minutes north.”
Tucson Sentinel: Hayden Cilley April 3, 2023 
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Phoenix-area housing programs aim to close the gap for people with autism
“After learning those key skills and concepts, Hendrey graduated from First Place’s transitional academy and moved to Spectrum Courtyard, which is for people with developmental disabilities with an emphasis for people with autism. The move was not as easy as he thought it would be. From a financial standpoint it was doubtful he would finally be able to live on his own, as home prices in 2021 were 22% higher than the year prior, and over the first six months of 2022, prices rose another 24%, according to Common Sense Institute Arizona.”
Phoenix Independent: Hayden Cilley April 2, 2023 
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Bitter occupational licensing news for our sweet home
“Another option is universal licensing recognition. Mississippi also addressed this — passing universal recognition two years ago and making it easier for new residents to start working next door. New research suggests that migration into states with universal recognition increases for licensed individuals. Arizona was the first state to offer universal recognition with no preconditions in 2019, and according to the Common Sense Institute it’s netted them nearly five thousand jobs.”
Montgomery Advertiser: March 21, 2023 
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The Arizona Senate Fails to Pass the Affordable Housing Bill 
“It would have made several changes to how Arizona’s cities regulate zoning matters and cut down the red tape to let developers build more. A report released by the Common Sense Institute of Arizona found that the state has a housing shortage of nearly 100,000 units. critics of the bill argued that it offered no guarantees for making housing units more affordable to the average resident.”
News 4 Tucson KVOA: March 14, 2023 
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Arizona Senate Rejects ‘Affordable Housing’ Bill 
“The Valley’s rate of homelessness jumped by 36% during the COVID-19 pandemic. And a report released by the Common Sense Institute of Arizona found that the state has a housing shortage of nearly 100,000 units. ‘Arizona has a housing crisis and needs more housing. Resolving it will require more than just tinkering around the edges of public policy. Thoughtful, bold, and swift action is required,’ the CSI report states.”
12 News KPNX-TV: Kevin Reagan, March 13, 2023 
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Other states are loosening, cutting back on occupational licensing. Why not California?
“‘Over 400 physicians and 170 physician assistants have been safely licensed by the Arizona Medical Board,’ noted the Arizona-based Goldwater Institute last month. ‘The state’s Registrar of Contractors has approved over 2,200 licenses for numerous occupations in the trades. Thousands of additional workers have benefitted from universal recognition, including hundreds of behavioral health examiners and numerous engineers, cosmetologists, and real estate agents and brokers, among many others.’ A report by the Common Sense Institute estimated the law could benefit Arizona’s gross domestic product by at least $1.5 billion over time.”
The Orange County Register: Sal Rodriguez, March 10, 2023 
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Other states are loosening, cutting back on occupational licensing. Why not California?
“A report by the Common Sense Institute estimated the law could benefit Arizona’s gross domestic product by at least $1.5 billion over time. None of this is particularly earth-shattering. But it’s something that California continues to drag its feet on. California has long had one of the most extensive and onerous licensing systems in the country, with predictable consequences. As the state’s own nonpartisan Little Hoover Commission has noted, one-in-five California require a license to work. Licensing, according to the commission, ‘slows growth in those occupations, inhibits interstate movement, and acts as a barrier to many looking for upward job mobility.'”
The Sun: Sal Rodriguez, March 10, 2023 
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Baseball Fever: Spring Training Is a Home Run for Phoenix Economy But Fans Face Sticker Shock
“Arizona’s sports tourism sector contributed $24.1 billion to the state’s gross domestic product and hundreds of thousands of jobs in 2022, according to a new report from the nonpartisan Common Sense Institute. There are 15 MLB clubs that do spring training in Arizona, often attracting fans from the Midwest, the West Coast, and the Southwest to workouts and games. Cactus League stadiums are spread across the Valley — in Mesa, Tempe, Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, and Goodyear.”
Phoenix New Times: Elias Weiss, March 8, 2023 
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Florida Considers a Brighter Way Forward for Skilled Workers
“In addition to being commonsense, universal recognition makes economic sense as well. A recent study from the Commonsense Institute estimates that the economic impact of universal recognition in Arizona will increase the state’s GDP by $1.5 billion over 10 years, and bring in nearly 16,000 additional workers. With this reform, Florida’s legislators have the opportunity to demonstrate that skilled professionals are welcome to work, making the state an even more attractive place to live. The Goldwater Institute applauds the efforts of Senator Collins and Representative Koster in championing this reform, and is thrilled to work alongside AFP-Florida and the Institute for Justice on this essential reform.”
Goldwater Institute: Heather Curry, March 3, 2023 
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Opinion: Super Bowl, other big sports events generate massive revenue
“Economists estimate that in 2015 the Super Bowl resulted in a nearly $720 million windfall for our state, and Super Bowl LVII is expected to bring a similarly massive boost to the state economy. It’s all part of Arizona’s sports tourism sector, which is responsible for a $24.2 billion contribution to the state’s Real Gross Domestic Product, according to new research from the Common Sense Institute Arizona. The study finds that nearly 350,000 Arizona jobs are directly or indirectly related to the sports and tourism sector.”
Chamber Business News: Danny Seiden, February 16, 2023 
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Super Bowl, Other Big Sports Events Generate Massive Revenue
“It’s all part of Arizona’s sports tourism sector, which is responsible for a $24.2 billion contribution to the state’s Real Gross Domestic Product, according to new research from the Common Sense Institute Arizona. The study finds that nearly 350,000 Arizona jobs are directly or indirectly related to the sports and tourism sector. But those numbers don’t even tell the full story. They don’t account, for example, for the long-term and significant business investments that these opportunities create.”
Arizona Capitol Times: Danny Seiden, February 15, 2023 
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Katie Hobbs Claims School Choice Will Bankrupt States
“Bream pressed Hobbs on her claim that the program was going to bankrupt the state, noting that a nonpartisan study from the Common Sense Institute found that declining public-school enrollment is saving the state $500 million annually, far more than the $377 million annual cost of the school choice program. The Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts will provide students with up to $7,000 per year for education-related costs, including private school tuition. ”
Washinton Examiner: Jeremiah Poff, February 13, 2023 
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AZ Sports and Tourism, Baseball Rule Changes, Cancer Vaccine
“The Common Sense Institute puts the overall impact on the sports and tourism sector and joining us now is Katie Ratlief and Glenn Farley of policy and research and thank you both for joining. In 2015, it was estimated that super bowl had a $715 million impact to the state, and we wanted to take a look at what does the tourism in sport’s industry mean for our state all year every year? It has very strong hospitality and a lot of great entertainment and we have 15 professional sport’s teams and all four are represented and it’s a $24 billion impact every year on state’s economy and that’s 6% of our economy. ”
Arizona Horizon by Arizona PBS: Ted Simons, February 13, 2023 
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How Arizona Sports and Tourism Sector Brings $24.1 Billion to Economy
“According to Katie Ratlief, executive director of the Common Sense Institute, ‘Arizona’s moderate climate, excellent hospitality industry and major event spaces have made it a magnate tourism destination. This growing sector is a massive contributor to our economy, and big events like this weekend’s Super Bowl will only continue the momentum. Arizona’s hospitality industry is truly the ‘welcome mat’ for millions of visitors to our state,’ she said. CSI’s report finds that the sector has not reached its peak yet. The think tank estimates that over the next 10 years Arizona will see the sports and tourism sector grow on average 3% per year. ”
AZ Big Media: by Nick Guptil, February 14, 2023 
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New Report: Sports and Tourism Sector Brings $24.1 billion to Arizona Economy
“A new report from the Common Sense Institute (CSI) found that $24.1 billion and hundreds of thousands of jobs have been generated by Arizona’s growing sports and tourism sector. According to the report, the sports and tourism sector employs 11% of Arizona’s total workforce and accounts for over 6% of the state’s total gross domestic product.”
Chamber Business News: by Nick Guptil, February 13, 2023 
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Fox News Sunday with Shannon Bream
“This comes from an opinion piece in the wall street journal they cite the Common Sense Institute in this talk about the people taken these factors and left and not anymore going to be in that pool for public school students they say the Common Sense Institute calculates this decline generates more than hundred million dollars in annual statewide savings, more than offsetting three to 77 million and a projected cost of the full ESA program.”
Fox News: by Shannon Bream, February 12, 2023 
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Super Bowl LVII: How Arizona wins from hosting the big game
“The Common Sense Institute, a nonpartisan research organization that analyzes Arizona’s economy, estimated that Arizona brought in $719.4 million when it hosted Super Bowl XLIX in 2015. The organization also predicted that this year’s big game will have an even greater economic impact. In 2022, the Grand Canyon State’s sports and tourism sector contributed $24.2 billion to Arizona’s GDP, according to the report, while the hospitality sector generated $13.7 billion in direct sales for Arizona’s hotels, casinos, and performance venues. This year’s Super Bowl is expected to increase the state’s economic output by more than 5%.”
Yahoo! Finance: by Kevin Cirilli, February 11, 2023 
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KTAR Eyes on Our Economy
“The super Bowl brings millions of dollars with it but sports and tourism are incredibly important to Arizona even without one-off events like the big game. A new report by the Common Sense Institute finds the sports and tourism industries have a big impact in the state. About $24 billion in annual contribution, sports and tourism sector carries in gross domestic product and for context up about 6%. researcher Glenn Farley estimates that amount will grow about 3% annually over the next decade faster than the rest of the economy.”
92.3 KTAR: by Taylor Tassler, February 10, 2023 
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Sports has become big business in Arizona
“A recent report found that about 11% of Arizona’s workforce and 6.4% of its total economic activity was related to sports and sports-related tourism in 2022, and the Common Sense Institute — the organization that published the report — expects the sector to grow in coming years. The report found that $24.1 billion was added to the state’s gross domestic product in 2022 by the sports and tourism sector.”
Phoenix Business Journal: by Brandon Brown, February 10, 2023 
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Sports Now a Huge Driver of Arizona’s Economy, Report Says
“A recent report by the non-partisan Common Sense Institute found that $24.1 billion was added to the state’s gross domestic product in 2022 by the sports and tourism sector. It also impacts hundreds of thousands of jobs. The report found that sports and sports-related tourism accounted for 11% of Arizona’s workforce and 6.4% of its total economic activity in 2022. What’s more, the study by the Phoenix-based Common Sense Institute expects the industry to grow over the next several years.”
ABC15 Arizona: by Brandon Brown, February 10, 2023 
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Report: Arizona school district excess property valued near $3.3 billion
“CSI released a wide-ranging report on the state’s handling of such matters from before the Great Recession in 2007 until 2022. Since the creation of the Schools Facilities Oversight Board that was created in 1998 to reduce disparities across districts stemming from property-tax-based finances systems already in place, researchers note state officials have built 324 new buildings and added 23.7 million square feet of space, making the state public school district by CSI estimations the fifth-largest private landowner in the area.”
Yuma Daily News: by Glenn Minnis, February 8, 2023 
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Common Sense Institute Arizona Releases Report On School Facilities & the Accumulation of District Space Since 2007
“Today, Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI) released a comprehensive report on Arizona school facilities and the accumulation of district space from before the Great Recession in 2007 to 2022. ‘The purpose of this report is to highlight all of the additional space Arizona has available to address key issues facing our communities,’ said CSI Executive Director Katie Ratlief. ‘Whether it’s strengthening public education or addressing the state’s housing shortage, we have a lot of excess, unmaintained space that could be used for public benefit.'”
The Bee News: February 3, 2023 
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How to Solve Arizona’s Housing Shortage, Which Has Reached Crisis Levels
“Simply put, Arizona has a housing crisis – we need more housing, and we need it now. To be clear, there is no fast and easy button that will make the housing shortage go away. The solution is steady, intentional, deliberate policy and collaboration between all levels of government and the private sector. We are of different political parties, but we have come together to find solutions to the challenges before us. After careful study of the data, dozens of stakeholder interviews and analysis of policy from other states, we have developed a menu of bipartisan solutions as part of a report for the nonpartisan Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI). We believe this can be a roadmap for state and local policymakers.“
AZ Central: January 23, 2023 Jenn Daniels and Sean Bowie
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Glenn Farley on Arizona’s ESA Program on KTAR News
“Glenn Farley, Director of Policy and Research at the Common Sense Institute says ‘While the cost of the ESA’s program under universal eligibility exceeds the additional $33 million initially appropriated by the Legislature, the Arizona Department of Education likely has sufficient excess funding to more than cover the difference, due to continued post-pandemic enrollment declines.’“
KTAR News: January 18, 2023 
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Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs Wants to Turn Back the Clock on School Choice
“Ms. Hobbs counts the cost of the program but ignores the fiscal benefit. An analysis from the nonpartisan Common Sense Institute finds that the ESA program will save taxpayer money. […]The Common Sense Institute calculates that this decline generates more than $500 million in annual statewide savings, more than offsetting the $377 million annual projected cost of the full ESA program. Meanwhile, Ms. Hobbs proposes to spend $1.34 billion on ‘new executive initiatives,’ belying her profession of concern for the taxpayer.”
Wall Street Journal: January 16, 2023 Jason Bedrick and Corey DeAngelis
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Despite Increased Use, Analysis Says Arizona’s School Choice Program Saving Taxpayers Money
“Using ADE data, CSI estimates an $8 million end-of-year surplus as of the first quarter of the year, given system-wide enrollment trends. The report came on the same day newly-elected Superintendent Tom Horne announced ADE had approved 24,366 delayed ESA requests, totaling more than $22.2 million delayed since the second quarter of 2022.
Prescott eNews: January 13, 2023 Cole Lauterbach
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Analysis says Arizona’s school choice program saving taxpayers money, contradicting Gov. Hobbs
“In an analysis released Wednesday, the nonprofit Common Sense Institute posits that the shift of students away from public schools is likely to save enough money to cover the increase and leave the state with more income than it had before. According to Arizona Department of Education data, public school enrollment has fallen by 31,000 students since 2019. Meanwhile, charter school enrollment has increased by 20,000.”
The Lion: January 12, 2023 Cole Lauterbach
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Noem Wants Law to Recognize More Out-Of-State Licenses
“Noem’s office cited a report from a non-partisan research organization in Arizona called Common Sense Institute Arizona. A report from May 2022 shows when Arizona passed a law recognizing all licenses, without restriction or precondition, 4,723 licenses have been recognized from 5,269 applications since 2019. 
Siouxland Proud: January 12, 2023 Eric Mayer
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Despite Increased Use, Analysis Says Arizona’s School Choice Program Saving Taxpayers Money
“In an analysis released Wednesday, the nonprofit Common Sense Institute posits that the shift of students away from public schools is likely to save enough money to cover the increase and leave the state with more income than it had before. According to Arizona Department of Education data, public school enrollment has fallen by 31,000 students since 2019. Meanwhile, charter school enrollment has increased by 20,000. 
The Center Square: January 11, 2023 Cole Lauterbach
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Gov. Hobbs Emphasizes Collaboration and Prioritizes Education in First State of the State Address, Business Community Finds Some Areas of Agreement
“The governor said she seeks to build upon Arizona’s strong job market and economy by addressing housing affordability. She said she wants to invest $150 million in the State Housing Trust Fund and that she “will call for additional support in the years ahead.” A recent bipartisan paper by the Common Sense Institute authored by former state Sen. Sean Bowie and former Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels called for the permanent and ongoing funding of the trust fund. “
Chamber Business News: January 10, 2023 by Michael Kittilson
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Senator Bowie Prepares for Life as Citizen Bowie
“In his waning months as a legislator, Bowie also has been hard at work – much of it involving education in one way or another. He just completed a report for the Common Sense Institute with former Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels on how Arizona can address the crisis in affordable housing. He has continued at ASU as professor of practice in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions. And he’s completing work on an executive MBA that he expects to receive in May.“
Ahwatukee Foothills News: January 5, 2023 by Paul Maryniak
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Arizona Saw Continued Job Growth in October 
“However, the state’s unemployment rate rose by 0.2% to 3.9%. It marked the fourth consecutive month where the state’s unemployment rate rose. Arizona’s rise in unemployment is due to a rising labor force participation rate. Since May, the state’s unemployment rate has increased from 3.2% to 3.9%, according to Common Sense Institute Arizona.“ 
The Center Square: November 18, 2022 by Tom Joyce
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Phoenix area facing worst inflation in America 
“During that same stretch, prices rose 7.7% nationally, Common Sense Institute Arizona reports. Even though inflation is still high, it is slowing down in the Phoenix metro area. As of August, the year-over-year inflation rate was 13%. Since the end of 2020, consumer prices have risen 21.1% in the Phoenix area – higher than any other part of the country, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.“ 
Prescott eNews: November 17, 2022 by Tom Joyce
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Phoenix area facing worst inflation in America 
“Consumer prices rose 12.1% from October 2021 to October 2022 in the Phoenix metro area. During that same stretch, prices rose 7.7% nationally, Common Sense Institute Arizona reports. Even though inflation is still high, it is slowing down in the Phoenix metro area. As of August, the year-over-year inflation rate was 13%. Since the end of 2020, consumer prices have risen 21.1% in the Phoenix area – higher than any other part of the country, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.“ 
The Washington Examiner: November 15, 2022 by Tom Joyce
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Phoenix area facing worst inflation in America 
“Consumer prices rose 12.1% from October 2021 to October 2022 in the Phoenix metro area. During that same stretch, prices rose 7.7% nationally, Common Sense Institute Arizona reports. Even though inflation is still high, it is slowing down in the Phoenix metro area. As of August, the year-over-year inflation rate was 13%. Since the end of 2020, consumer prices have risen 21.1% in the Phoenix area – higher than any other part of the country, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.“ 
The Center Square Arizona: November 14, 2022 by Tom Joyce
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Glenn Farley Joins KFYI 550 To Discuss Arizona’s Housing Market
“Mortgage rates are causing the Arizona home buyer misery index to spike Glenn Farley of Common Sense Insitute Arizona says the housing affordability index came in at 200.2 for the quarter that ended in September, the long-run average is 103.2.” 
KFYI  550 AM: November 1, 2022
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My View: In Arizona, a bill or a proposition doesn’t always tell the whole story 
“Ultimately, there are legitimate policy arguments to each that voters and policymakers should consider. My broader point is to call attention to the general lack of information out there about what these initiatives do and the potential for unintended consequences. Voters should do their best to be as informed as they can be before casting their votes on Nov. 8. Clearly, these policies are much more than ‘just a bill.'” 
Phoenix Business Journal: November 1, 2022 by Glenn Farley
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Arizona Ballot Proposition Roundup
“The Arizona-based Common Sense Institute released its 2022 Initiative Results & Free Enterprise Analysis report on Thursday, which analyzed how the proposition that voters approved will impact the economy. Its report looked at four propositions, including Prop. 130, which has to do with property taxes, Prop. 132, which requires a 60% approval by voters for new taxes that make it to the ballot, and Prop. 209, which limits how much medical debt can be collected. Regarding property taxes, the analysis found that the proposition “would have minimal new fiscal impact” but could save some money on both the public and government sides.“
The Center Square: December 15, 2022 by Cameron Arcand
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Bipartisan Solutions Proposed to Solve AZ Housing Crisis
“Bowie and Daniels are Housing fellows for Common Sense Institute (CSI) Arizona. Their recommendations are outlined in a CSI report provided to members of a symposium in Phoenix last week. It places an emphasis on streamlining bureaucracy, funding more incentives for development, and shifting greater control into the hands of local governments...According to the report, Arizona needs roughly 100,000 new housing units to meet demand. Barriers to construction at the state level, and red tape within state agencies, are limiting options available to local governments to approve more affordable housing, the report states.“
12News: December 13, 2022 by Joe Dana
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KTAR 92.3 Discusses Arizona’s Housing Market
“Based on the findings of the Common Sense Institute report, which estimates the shortage of around 100000 housing units in the state former Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniel says it’s all hands on deck. It’s really got to be a true partnership between the state the local governments and then also the private sector, cities and towns.“
KTAR 92.3: December 7, 2022
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KTAR 92.3 Discusses Arizona’s Housing Market
“Glenn Farley, director of policy and research with the Common Sense Institute says COVID lockdowns affected our ability to accommodate new residents, and developers weren’t able to start building like crazy in 2020 as they might have. That construction really began in late 2021, last until early 22.”
KTAR 92.3: December 7, 2022
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Governor Ducey deputy chief of staff hired as new executive director for leading free enterprise research institute
“Katie will leave her current role as deputy chief of staff to become executive director at The Common Sense Institute (CSI), a non-partisan research organization dedicated to the protection and promotion of Arizona’s economy, in January 2023. As CSI’s new executive director, Katie seeks to be a champion for fact based fiscal policy research and to educate and inform Arizonans on the key issues impacting their lives, from housing affordability, to crime, to inflation, and much more.”
Chamber Business News: October 17, 2022 by Michael Kittilson
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The Arizona Miracle
“A July study by Common Sense Institute Arizona also points out that homebuilders in the state were badly burned by the real-estate collapse in 2008 and have skimped on new construction ever since. Home prices have jumped 40% in just the last two years, compared with 25% nationally.” 
National Affairs: Fall 2022 by James K. Glassman
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Kari Lake agrees with liberals: We shouldn’t have sent migrants to Martha’s Vineyard
“Biden’s border schemes, in combination with America’s crackdown on prescription opioids and the decriminalization of street drugs, has led to a ‘perfect storm’ that created a gusher of fentanyl into the country, reports the nonpartisan Common Sense Institute in Arizona. (The research organization’s board includes well-known Arizonans such as Lisa Graham Keegan and Jim Kolbe, who incidentally endorsed Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election.)”
AZ Central: September 19, 2022 by Phil Boas
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Phoenix sees nation’s worst inflation
“‘This was a bad report just in terms of the first-derivatives (the headline rates), in that it means policy actions to date haven’t had their intended effect,’ said Glenn Farley, director of policy and research at the Common Sense Institute of Arizona. ‘In part, this is probably explained by the fact that the Federal Reserve is effectively fighting the U.S. Treasury which inhibits our ability to get inflation under control relative to a world where they were cooperating.’”
HD Daily News: September 16, 2022 by Cole Lauterbach
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Phoenix sees nation’s worst inflation
“‘This was a bad report just in terms of the first-derivatives (the headline rates), in that it means policy actions to date haven’t had their intended effect,’ said Glenn Farley, director of policy and research at the Common Sense Institute of Arizona. ‘In part, this is probably explained by the fact that the Federal Reserve is effectively fighting the U.S. Treasury which inhibits our ability to get inflation under control relative to a world where they were cooperating.'”
Prescott eNews: September 14, 2022 by Cole Lauterbach
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Phoenix sees nation’s worst inflation
“‘This was a bad report just in terms of the first-derivatives (the headline rates), in that it means policy actions to date haven’t had their intended effect,’ said Glenn Farley, director of policy and research at the Common Sense Institute of Arizona. ‘In part, this is probably explained by the fact that the Federal Reserve is effectively fighting the U.S. Treasury which inhibits our ability to get inflation under control relative to a world where they were cooperating.'”
The Center Square Arizona: September 13, 2022 by Cole Lauterbach
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Interconnected Border and Fentanyl Crises Cost Arizona $53 Billion in 2021, Study Finds
“A new report by the Common Sense Institute in Arizona attempts to quantify just how costly the crisis has become in the Grand Canyon State. According to the report. which is authored by Glenn Farley, the institute’s senior economist, as well as its director of policy and research, the economic costs of the opioid crisis in Arizona increased to $53 billion in 2021, four times more than a decade ago.”
National Review: September 5, 2022 by Ryan Mills
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More accessible medication-assisted treatment can help combat fentanyl crisis, AzPHA Executive Director Will Humble says
“Data from the Common Sense Institute Arizona shows that fentanyl is currently involved in 57% of Arizona overdoses compared to about 4% in 2017.”
State of Reform: September 2, 2022 by Soraya Marashi
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Universal Licensing Netted Arizona Several Thousand Jobs, Study Finds 
“In 2019, Arizona became the first state in the country with universal license recognition; if someone has a work license in another state, they can use that license in Arizona. Since then, 4,723 new work licenses have been issued under the law, according to a study conducted by the Common Sense Institute and the Goldwater Institute…CSI notes that healthcare and construction are the two fields that benefit most from universal licensing recognition; real estate is also in the top five.”
The Center Square – Arizona: June 1, 2022
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The Valley Has the Highest Inflation in the Nation
“The Valley has the highest inflation rate in the nation. Prices spiked 11% in April from a year earlier, well above the national rate of 8.3%. Glenn Farley of Common Sense Institute-Arizona, which crunched the numbers says Phoenix was joined by several other cities that also registered double-digit inflation. ‘It’s up there with Atlanta, Florida and Texas; all these cities we historically associate with a low cost of living are currently experiencing really high inflation.’ He says it’s unclear why, but one theory is that economic activity has been shifting to these cities bringing inflation with it.”
KFYI-AM Radio (Phoenix, AZ): May 13, 2022
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Study Finds Arizona Inflation Among Highest in the Nation
“According to a recent analysis by Common Sense Institute, Phoenix continues to lead the country in measured price increases, joining Atlanta, Tampa, Los Angeles, and Miami as the four cities with double-digit rates of inflation over the past year. Also of concern, inflation here and in these other cities accelerated over the prior readings, even as headline US inflation slowed marginally.”
Gila Valley Central: May 12, 2022
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Arizona Needs to Add 206,000 Housing Units by 2023
“Arizona needs 206,000 housing units more than its 2020 inventory if it hopes to keep up with the state’s population growth, according the nonpartisan organization Common Sense Institute AZ. According to a May 6 report by the organization, A typical home in Phoenix now costs $413,000 and a regular mortgage payment runs $1,772 per month, a rise of $681 in the last year. Arizona saw110,000 new residents from other states in 2020, and the growth is expected to continue. Current building rates show that the state will fall short of the necessary supply by about 11,000 units.”
Havasu News: May 12, 2022
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Arizona’s Home Buyer Misery Index is Soaring
“That’s according to common Sense Institute Arizona which states the indexes averaged 100 over the past 30 years, but is now at 187 could rise to 200 by the end of 2022. Its analysis of state housing immigration data finds the mortgage payment on a typical Phoenix home has jumped by $682  a month in the past 12 months alone and a shortage of available homes for a growing population and rising interest rates are making things worse.”
KFYI-AM Radio (Phoenix, AZ): May 6, 2022
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New Flat Tax Instead of High Prop 208 Rate Will Boost State GDP by Billions
“According to Glenn Farley, CSI-Arizona’s Director of Policy & Research, Arizona is the 11th state to adopt a simplified flat tax structure. And when the state’s 2.5 percent flat rate is transitioned in, it will give Arizonans ‘the lowest income tax rate in the country’ among the states with such a tax. Farley added that Arizona currently has a happy revenue problem, in that the State has experienced unprecedented annual growth in income and sales tax collections since Fiscal Year 2018. ‘Arizona is collecting at least $2.4 billion more per year due to the 2019 Tax Omnbius, passed by the Arizona state legislature, than it was under the pre-2018 tax base,’ the CSI report states.”
AZ Free News: May 5, 2022
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Flat Tax Ruling will be Good for Arizona’s Economy
“A new flat state income tax that’s being allowed to take effect following the State Supreme Court ruling will be good for Arizona’s economy, eventually. It’s according to an analysis by Common Sense Institute Arizona. ‘It’ll take time with these things to school up but over roughly 10 years, by 2032 the state can expect about $60000 more per person, about 12 billion $ in higher state GDP,’ the group’s Glenn Farley says. In the short term, the state will take in less revenue but [Farley] says Arizona has plenty of cash in surplus to carry it through a few years.”
KFYI-AM Radio (Phoenix, AZ): May 4, 2022
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It’s Becoming Easier To Get Permission To Work, But Not by Enough
“Arizonans have applied for 5,269 licenses under the law, and 4,723 have been issued,” reports the Common Sense Institute of Arizona on the impact of the 2019 universal licensing law. “By 2030, HB 2569 is projected to increase employment in Arizona by 15,991 workers; increase Arizona Gross Domestic Product by $1.5 billion; and increase the state’s population by a combined 44,376 people (particularly through increased in-migration of working age adults).”
Reason: July 25, 2022 by J.D. Tuccille
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Here’s why experts say Arizona housing market is on a precipice
“According to CSI Arizona, housing has become less affordable because of rapid price increases and rapid interest rate hikes. And the problem is more severe in Arizona and the Phoenix Metropolitan market; Arizona housing prices have increased by 40% compared to 25% nationally since the end of 2020. The report also highlights that Arizona’s housing shortage is damaging affordable housing as well. Findings suggest the 2006 housing peak, followed by the 2008-2009 recession, caused fewer homes built over the last decade.“
Chamber Business News: July 21, 2022 by Michael Kittilson
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More Housing Supply Needed to Address Affordability
“According to CSI Arizona, housing has become less affordable because of rapid price increases and rapid interest rate hikes. And the problem is more severe in Arizona and the Phoenix Metropolitan market; Arizona housing prices have increased by 40% compared to 25% nationally since the end of 2020. The report also highlights that Arizona’s housing shortage is damaging affordable housing as well. Findings suggest the 2006 housing peak, followed by the 2008-2009 recession, caused fewer homes built over the last decade.“
Chamber Business News: July 21, 2022 by Michael Kittilson
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Here’s why experts say Arizona housing market is on a precipice
“Economists at the Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI), a nonprofit research organization specializing in issues related to economic development, found that Arizona’s housing market is on a precipice…. ‘Simply put, demand is outpacing supply and people are paying more because of it,’ said Glenn Farley, CSI Arizona director of policy & research. ‘Low borrowing costs have been enabling this for months but that is now coming to an end.’“
AZ Big Media: July 21, 2022 by Michael Kittilson – Chamber Business News
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Inflation in Phoenix is Higher Than Anywhere Else in America
“Inflation here is higher than anywhere else in the country, according to a recent study from the Common Sense Institute, a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank based in Phoenix. Inflation hits all Americans, but none more than the Arizonans who have faced an unprecedented 10.9 percent spike in prices over the last 12 months — 3 full points higher than the rest of the nation.”
Phoenix New Times: April 7, 2022
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Study reveals increasing cost of Arizona opioids crisis
“A new study found the cost of the opioid crisis in Arizona has increased. Glenn Farley is the director of Policy & Research at “Common Sense Institute Arizona.” He says the cost has gone up as more of the burden of protecting against drug smuggling at the border has shifted to the state.”
Fronteras: August 25, 2022 by Ignacio Ventura
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New report: Arizona opioid crisis costs state billions
“A new study found the cost of the opioid crisis in Arizona has increased. Glenn Farley is the director of Policy & Research at “Common Sense Institute Arizona.” He says the cost has gone up as more of the burden of protecting against drug smuggling at the border has shifted to the state.”
91.5 KJZZ: August 25, 2022 by Ignacio Ventura
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New report: Arizona opioid crisis costs state billions
“A recent analysis published and released by the Common Sense Institute (CSI) Arizona finds that the opioid epidemic in Arizona is not only a detriment to the state economy, but also a larger national and public safety issue.”
Chamber Business News: August 25, 2022 by Michael Kittilson
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Opioid Addiction Deaths Cost Arizona Economy $53 Billion
“The panel was hosted over Zoom by the nonprofit and nonpartisan Common Sense Institute Arizona. Its policy and research director, Glenn Farley, said he determined the increase by following the methodology the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention used to find Arizona’s opioid addiction costs for 2017.”
AZ Central: August 24, 2022 by Jose R. Gonzalez
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Opioid Addiction Deaths Cost Arizona Economy $53 Billion
“The panel was hosted by the nonprofit and nonpartisan Common Sense Institute Arizona via Zoom. Director of Policy and Research Glenn Farley said he determined the increase by following the methodology used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to determine Arizona’s 2017 opioid addiction costs.”
The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette: August 24, 2022 by Sammy Edwards
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Are we in a recession now? The data might not tell us clearly – but your eyes will
“Glenn Farley is director of policy & research for the Commonsense Institute in Arizona, a nonpartisan group dedicated to studying the economic impacts of state and local policies on Arizonans. He was the chief economist for Gov. Doug Ducey.”
AZ Central: August 18, 2022 by Glenn Farley
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Here’s why experts say Arizona housing market is on a precipice
“Economists at the Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI), a nonprofit research organization specializing in issues related to economic development, found that Arizona’s housing market is on a precipice…. ‘Simply put, demand is outpacing supply and people are paying more because of it,’ said Glenn Farley, CSI Arizona director of policy & research. ‘Low borrowing costs have been enabling this for months but that is now coming to an end.’“
AZ Big Media: August 14, 2022 by Michael Kittilson
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Common Sense Institute expanding in Arizona
“A nonpartisan Colorado think tank focused on protecting and promoting the economy is expanding right here in Arizona. Strategic adviser Daniel Scarpinato says the Common Sense Institute Arizona will have a different focus from other think tanks. Common Sense Institute is focused on ‘if you pass that, here’s the impact it would have on our economy over the next year.’ Said Scarpinato.”
KFYI-AM Radio (Phoenix, AZ): March 8, 2022
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Don’t Colorado My Arizona
“A think tank with roots in Colorado will launch in Arizona tomorrow. The Common Sense Institute plans to ‘examine the fiscal impacts of policies, initiatives, and proposed laws so that Arizonans are educated and informed on issues impacting their lives.’ Common Sense Arizona identifies itself as a nonpartisan research organization. T. Scott Martin, managing partner at Rivercrest Capital Management, the founding chair of the board, said in a statement that the current ‘partisan and divisive political atmosphere’ makes it difficult to get basic facts. ‘At CSI, we are guided by non-partisan dynamic research,’ Martin stated. ‘We don’t advocate – we educate.'”
Yellow Sheet Report – Arizona: March 7, 2022 by Bridgetower Media
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Common Sense Institute expands operations to Arizona
“Daniel Scarpinato, a former chief of staff of Gov. Doug Ducey who’s advising CSI Arizona, told Colorado Politics that CSI’s bipartisan and neutral approach to policy gives it a lot of advantage. He said Arizona doesn’t have ‘anything close to what CSI provides. I really do believe that CSI will prove itself to be a great source for legislators on both sides of the aisle,’ Scarpinato said.”
Colorado Politics: March 7, 2022 by Luige Del Puerto
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