The Arizona Senate voted Monday to continue Prop. 400, much to the relief of the Arizona economic development community. The passage of Senate Bill 1102, which will let voters decide the fate of Prop. 400 for the third time since 1984, when it was initially approved.
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Next stop:Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs’ desk. Prop. 400 is a half-cent sales tax originally approved by Maricopa County voters in 1985. In 2004, voters approved to extend the sales tax for transportation for an additional 20 years to 2026. The transportation tax bill addresses much-needed transportation funding in Maricopa County to accommodate rapid population growth.
Arizona business leaders applauded the potential continuation of Prop. 400.
“Today, the Arizona Legislature took bold action in support of our state’s economic future by sending to Governor Hobbs Senate Bill 1102,” Valley Partnership President and CEO Clark Princell. “After months of negotiations, the final product provides a critical framework for the next generation of transportation infrastructure projects in Maricopa County. We thank Governor Hobbs, members of the legislature, city and county leaders, and stakeholders for their tireless work on this proposal that will be sent to voters in Maricopa County.
“Transportation projects do not happen overnight,” Princell said. “It takes many years of planning, budgeting, and building to stay ahead of the demand and remain competitive for the next several decades. By funding and preparing for future transportation projects, we can stay ahead of the demand, create a safe and well- functioning transportation system, and continue to be a top destination for businesses and families.”
“Valley Partnership will continue to work with our broad coalition of business and community leaders to ensure the passage of this regional transportation plan at the ballot.”
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego echoed the optimism: ““After months of negotiations, I am glad that our robust, unanimously approved transportation plan will finally reach the voters of Maricopa County. This legislation is how we will continue to support our region’s record growth, and with approval from our voters, its passage will ultimately mean that we can deliver on improved and expanded transit and transportation services that connect county residents to jobs, education, and more.”
