Jan Brewer in 2014 Governor's State of the State speeches


On Budget & Economy: Fixed $3B deficit & replenished Rainy Day Fund

I am proud to report to you today that Arizona's fiscal house is in order and, together, let's keep it that way. We've come a long way in a short time:
  • In 2009, Arizona's budget was irresponsibly drained. After years of unsustainable spending, we had the worst budget deficit of any state.
  • Today, we've reined in government spending by consolidating, eliminating and transforming our operations.
  • In 2009, Arizona had a $3 billion deficit.
  • Today, Arizona boasts a healthy state surplus and a replenished Rainy Day Fund.
  • Most impressively, we ended this past fiscal year with nearly 900 million dollars in the bank.
  • There is no doubt: Arizona is BACK ON TRACK!
  • We also remember that our state was swept up in some of the worst unemployment in our history, and Arizona businesses and families struggled to stay afloat.
    Source: 2014 State of the State Address to Arizona legislature Jan 13, 2014

    On Civil Rights: Arnold v. Sarn deal: mentally ill participate in society

    As governor, I insisted that we properly fund and fundamentally reform behavioral health into a holistic, community-based system. With good faith negotiations in the Arnold v. Sarn litigation, this goal was accomplished. This win-win solution allows the seriously mentally ill to participate in society in a more meaningful way, and to receive the services and care they require and deserve. We also introduced metrics to evaluate the system and hold it accountable.

    As a result of these historic reforms, I was proud to announce last week an agreement--subject to final court approval--that will end the Arnold v. Sarn litigation, while reaffirming Arizona's commitment to a community-based behavioral health care system.

    Now, let me be clear: While this watershed agreement ends more than 30 years of litigation, it is structured so that if a future Governor or Legislature fails to live up to its terms, plaintiffs will be able to reopen the case. This should NEVER happen!

    Source: 2014 State of the State Address to Arizona legislature Jan 13, 2014

    On Families & Children: Office of Child Welfare Investigations is first step

    Our immediate challenge is to transform our child protection system to ensure the safety and well-being of Arizona's abused and neglected children. I know this: All of us care, and Arizona MUST do better. We created the Office of Child Welfare Investigations as an instrumental first step. Thanks to OCWI, we discovered the horrifying truth that some at CPS failed to investigate, or even respond to, thousands of reports of child abuse. This is unconscionable!

    I created the independent CARE Team--to oversee the investigation of these cases and to identify areas of concern within CPS. I also ordered the Department of Public Safety to conduct an administrative review to determine why these cases were not investigated.

    It is evident that our child welfare system is broken--impeded by years of structural and operational failures. It breaks my heart and makes me angry! Enough with uninvestigated reports of abuse and neglect! Enough with the lack of transparency! And ENOUGH with the EXCUSES!

    Source: 2014 State of the State Address to Arizona legislature Jan 13, 2014

    On Local Issues: Mitigate property encroachment on military land use

    Few things have a greater positive economic impact in Arizona communities than our military bases. Together they contribute more than nine billion to our economy annually--while safe-guarding our great country. We are more prepared to help the military accomplish its diverse missions than nearly any other state. I remain committed to protecting and enhancing Arizona's military bases. That is why I will direct the Military Affairs Commission to develop a strategic plan for sustaining their missions. We must be ready to protect Arizona military installations if the federal government moves to close or realign more bases. This year, I am calling on the Legislature to renew support for the Military Installation Fund. That money will be used specifically to mitigate property encroachment and preserve military land use projects--without throwing that financial burden on private property owners. Protecting our military is good for Arizona--and good for America.
    Source: 2014 State of the State Address to Arizona legislature Jan 13, 2014

    On Technology: Boost AZ's business competitiveness in technology sector

    I firmly believe in this great state of Arizona, in our ability to address our challenges and to be successful in pursuing tomorrow's potential. What we are doing today will set the tone for Arizona's economy and job creation for years. Our future quality of life depends on today's decisions. This year I am calling on the Legislature to approve a package to further boost Arizona's business competitiveness, particularly in technology and manufacturing sectors, which bring high--paying jobs. Arizona, for example, is one of the few states that impose a sales tax on manufacturers for the power used to create their products. That puts our current manufacturers--and ones we hope to recruit--at a disadvantage. I'm asking you to send me legislation to eliminate this tax and increase Arizona's competitive edge! We recognize that manufacturing is more than just an industry--it is a mighty engine of healthy job creation. Arizona can be even more competitive.
    Source: 2014 State of the State Address to Arizona legislature Jan 13, 2014

    The above quotations are from 2014 Governor's State of the State speeches.
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    Page last updated: Dec 07, 2018