14: The Common Sense Institute's 2023 Arizona's Free Enterprise Report

Katlie Ratlief, executive director of the Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI-AZ) and Glenn Farley, CSI's director of policy and research, joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the recently-released 2023 edition of Arizona's Free Enterprise Report: https://commonsenseinstituteaz.org/2023-free-enterprise-report/

This report includes the "Free Enterprise Competitive Index," which measures Arizona's alignment with CSI-AZ's policy areas on topics including: Education, Energy, Healthcare, Housing, Infrastructure, Public Safety, State Budget and Finances, and Taxes and Fees.

Following is a summary of this episode:

• Arizona's Economic Health: Farley highlighted Arizona's economic growth over the past decade, leading to a healthier state budget. However, he notes the mixed outlook due to slowing national economy and depleted state cash reserves.

• Fiscal Discipline and Economic Growth: Farley credited fiscal discipline and economic growth for Arizona's transition from a deficit to a surplus under former Governor Doug Ducey's (R) administration.

• 2023 Free Enterprise Report: Ratlief discussed the report, which assesses Arizona's economy across various policy areas. The report serves as a roadmap for policymakers and community leaders.

• Education System: Ratlief and Farley said the state's education system faces challenges, particularly in high school graduation rates and learning loss due to the pandemic. However, they see policies like school choice and investment in education as positive steps.

• Public Safety and Housing: Arizona ranks poorly in public safety and housing. The fentanyl crisis, homelessness, and border issues are major concerns. Housing affordability is at its worst, driven by rapid price appreciation and interest rate increases.

• Healthcare System: The state's healthcare system faces challenges, including a shortage of healthcare providers and a low rate of private insurance participation.

• Infrastructure: Arizona has made significant investments in infrastructure, which is seen as a positive development, especially with the state's population growth.

CSI-AZ is a affiliated with CSI Colorado, which was founded in 2010 as the Commonse Sense Policy Roundtable. CSI-AZ's mission is to examine and in inform Arizona citizens about the fiscal impacts of policies, initiatives, and proposed laws in the state.