[Source: Arizona Republic] — The emergency surgery on the 2009 budget went too far. The Legislature’s plan, signed by Gov. Jan Brewer on Saturday, cuts so deeply into muscle that it weakens Arizona’s future.
We can probably heal some of the damage. If the state receives more federal stimulus money than legislators anticipated, the dollars should restore reductions with long-term consequences. But the radical operation of 2009 is just a sample of what could happen next fiscal year.
The revenue shortfall for 2010 is expected to be a staggering $3 billion, nearly a third of the general-fund budget. Arizona must consider every possible way to treat this huge but temporary problem and then choose the best mix to minimize lasting side effects. A few examples of the 2009 cuts show how Arizona has reached the outer limit and beyond on budget reductions.
- Universities took a huge and disproportionate share of the hit, undercutting their ability to create the highly educated workforce that many companies seek.
- The 21st Century Fund was wiped out. The last-minute maneuver, not supported by Republican leaders, eliminated $22.5 million that boosts technology and bioscience development in Arizona.
- The Department of Economic Security says families that qualify for subsidized child care will have to go on a waiting list until the end of the fiscal year. It’s estimated to include 5,000 children by June 30. Low-income parents will be forced to choose between working and leaving kids in risky situations.
- Graduate medical education loses $7 million in funding, sacrificing a federal match of $14 million. It’s a double-barreled loss in a state that needs more doctors and is expanding its medical sector.
- State parks, part of our tourism economy as well as a playground for Arizonans, will have to shutter eight facilities or take similar drastic steps.
Everything should be on the table for 2010. Reorganizing for greater efficiencies. Using toll roads. Maximizing the use of technology. And as a last resort — if the only other option is gutting essential functions and jeopardizing Arizona’s future — the list should include the T-word. Re-examining tax breaks. Deferring the rollout of tax cuts. Revamping and broadening the tax system.
We can look at ideas kicked around in the 40-plus other states facing shortfalls. With a June 30 deadline for crafting a budget, we have time for thoughtful analysis. But we have no time to waste on rhetoric and grandstanding.