FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 6, 2022
President-Elect Warren Petersen Unveils Plan to Help
Struggling Arizonans Combat Rising Prices
PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Government has done extremely well over the last few years by adding a record amount of revenue. Unfortunately, hardworking taxpayers are reeling during this period of runaway inflation and are having a tough time paying for the most basic necessities. There are at least four actions we can make as a Legislature to counter the effects of rising costs and help our citizens who are living paycheck to paycheck.
Eliminate the Rental Tax: Government makes plenty of money from the income tax charged to landlords. Tenants should not also be required to pay a tax. People who own the homes don’t pay a tax every time they make their mortgage payment. Tenants shouldn't have to either. This initiative alone can put thousands annually into the pockets of tenants.
Eliminate the Food Tax: Food is not a luxury. It is a necessity. This tax is regressive and hurts the poorest of the poor. Fortunately, many cities do not charge a food tax. Let’s ban it completely.
Increase the Housing Supply: 20 years ago, you could take a property from dirt and build a house within six months. Those days are long gone as a litany of hurdles have been placed in obtaining approvals for land development and housing. Now, it can take as long as four years! Let’s increase the housing supply by shortening this window. One way to accomplish this is through administrative approvals for all projects that meet all existing laws and requirements.
Reduce or Eliminate Occupational License Fees: Whether you're a barber, realtor, loan officer, contractor, or other licensed professional, you are required to pay fees to the state to hold your license. Let’s cut those in half or eliminate them altogether. This step will put hundreds of dollars back in the pockets of our hard-working taxpayers.
These initiatives listed are not too difficult to accomplish. Local and state governments have surpluses in their coffers. I look forward to working with my caucus, Finance Chair J.D. Mesnard, Appropriations Chair John Kavanagh and Government Chair Jake Hoffman to counter the effects of rampant inflation.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus
kquintero@azleg.gov