It’s not business as usual at the Arizona state Capitol.  

Several bills have been introduced this session that fit a common theme: more government intrusion into private employers’ workplaces; new regulations undermining the ability of job creators to set their own policies; and the threat of costly litigation, stiff financial penalties or even criminal charges against employers just operating in the best interest of their employees and their businesses.  

Put more directly: these measures seek to punish employers who require COVID-19 vaccinations as a condition of employment.  

I appreciate that policymakers can have good-faith differences of opinion about vaccine mandates.  following a move by the Biden administration to implement a “vaccine-or-test” mandate without consulting with the nation’s business community or governors. Job creators should have the authority to set their own workplace policies. Allowing these federal mandates to stand would have set troubling precedent for future and more cumbersome government overreach on private businesses.  

The �鶹��ýӳ�� applauded the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision last month to block the administration’s rule, and free enterprise advocates in Arizona and across the country collectively agreed: this ruling was a win for private employers and their authority to run a business without the heavy hand of government getting in the way.  

Now, many of the same lawmakers who claim that government has no business dictating the workplace policies of private employers are leading efforts at the state Legislature that would do exactly that.  

Many of these measures are being pushed through the Legislature under the guise of religious liberty, medical freedom and personal choice. , Arizona businesses would be on the hook for $500,000 in damages – at a minimum – if they refuse a religious exemption from an employee who later experiences “significant injury” as a result of the vaccine (never mind that the bill never defines “significant injury”). 

I want to be clear: if businesses are violating religious freedoms, they are already breaking existing law, and they should be held accountable. If employees are injured as a result of a workplace policy, they should seek recourse and be appropriately compensated.  

We already have longstanding federal and state laws in place to address religious discrimination and workers’ compensation. We should not be creating new avenues to sue employers.  

Meanwhile,  stipulates any business that terminates an employee for not receiving a vaccine as a condition of employment would either have to pay that individual an annual salary’s worth of severance, or rehire the employee at the same or similar position.  

Not only does the language in this bill apply broadly to any separation from employment – not just wrongful termination – it also doesn’t account for the fact that some industries remain subject to federal vaccination requirements. Under this legislation, these businesses would be forced to choose between complying with federal law or state statute – an impossible “sued-if-you-do, sued-if-you-don’t” scenario. 

Just last year, the Legislature enacted commonsense liability protections for employers, protecting Arizona businesses from meritless litigation and rightfully recognizing the appropriate avenue for addressing employee claims was through Arizona’s workers’ compensation system. The �鶹��ýӳ�� and the broader business community strongly supported that bill. 

Ironically, some of the same lawmakers who helped lead those efforts are championing legislation that encourages more lawsuits and more government intrusion. In some cases, one might think these bills were drafted by labor unions or trial lawyers, not legislators who purport to be champions of employer freedom.  

Whether it’s the federal government telling businesses they must require vaccines or the state Legislature telling businesses they can’t, a mandate is a mandate. And we will continue to communicate to lawmakers of both parties that private sector job creators will resist government overreach – regardless of whether it’s coming from Washington, D.C. or the state Capitol. 

Danny Seiden is president and CEO of the Arizona �鶹��ýӳ�� of Commerce & Industry.

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I am writing to provide you with another COVID19 update. So far, 2.1 million Americans have been infected, and around 120,000 have died, despite the fact that only a minority of our population has been exposed. To put this in perspective, more Americans have died from COVID19 than every war since 1950 combined, and we have the highest death toll in the world.

With my last update dated May 4, I wrote that “daily cases and deaths remain steady” and that “We seem to be on the verge of a downward trend, but only time will tell.”

On May 15, the Arizona stay at home order was allowed to expire, and though many of us have continued to stay at home, socially distance, and assiduously wear masks, we have witnessed large social gatherings, lack of masks in many public places, and general increase in non-distanced activity.

Many of us in medicine and public health have been worried that this would lead to an increase in caseload after about 1-2 weeks, and indeed, that has come to pass. Compared to our daily caseload in the 300-400 range in early May, we are now seeing about 1500 new cases per day. Arizona has received national and international press because our numbers are so concerning. According to rtlive.com, Arizona currently has the highest rate of COVID19 spread in the country.

Why are these numbers concerning?

First, they indicate that the virus is spreading rapidly. Some may ask whether the increased case counts simply reflect an increase in testing. After all, if we test more, we would expect to find more cases. But if increased testing were the only explanation, the percent of positive tests would also decrease. In Arizona, the percent of positive tests has actually increased, which is an ominous finding. The virus really appears to be on a tear through our state.

Second, our biggest concern must remain the ability to provide optimal medical care to anyone who needs it, especially critical care. This includes not only COVID19 patients, but also anyone who is very sick with a heart attack, stroke, traumatic injury, or other serious condition. Over the past week, we heard that two of our major hospital chains were nearing ICU bed capacity. Per the DHS website, we have about 20% of our ICU beds available, or 350 in total. The hospitals can indeed increase capacity beyond this level and are making plans to do so. We also have other hospitals such as Phoenix St. Luke’s here in my district on standby as necessary.

I am currently working with a modeling team at a major university to determine whether we will exhaust our resources and if so, at what time. I hope that a better understanding will guide our public policy decisions.

But the risk here is significant. The COVID19 virus spreads in an exponential way, meaning that in the next two weeks, we could see much higher case counts. That could overwhelm our medical system, and we would then see unnecessary death in Arizona. The decisions we make right now affect our experience two weeks from now.

What can we do about it?

Looking at the evidence that has emerged over the last few months, we can learn a few important lessons. We have several public policy options that would avoid another shutdown and taken together, would significantly slow the virus and protect health care capacity.

First, the best available science now strongly suggests that widespread use of masks reduces community spread. This refers to surgical masks or any cloth covering of the mouth and nose (not N95 masks which are designed to protect health care workers). Masks may not protect the wearer, but rather protect everyone around the wearer. Masks are not a perfect solution, but they do make a significant difference, especially when we consider the millions of interactions across society every day. Short-term use of cloth or surgical masks is also very safe and not associated with adverse medical outcomes.

Second, we have learned that spread is far more likely indoors than outdoors. Taking these two points together, if all members of the public wore masks indoors, we would see a significant decrease in transmission. Other countries have had positive experiences with such mask policies.

Third, physical distancing has also been shown to decrease transmission. All of us must take great care to maintain distance in public. Businesses should limit indoor customers. Restaurants should not seat people close together. Hygiene and disinfection procedures should be through and routine. We must continue to avoid crowds and large gatherings.

Fourth, age continues to be the top risk factor for death, and so targeted strategies to protect seniors are crucial. Along with many stakeholders, I am personally working on a package of common-sense initiatives to protect those in facilities such as assisted living, nursing homes, etc. We hope to have these initiatives fully developed soon in case the legislature returns for a special session.

Fifth, some have asked about the possibility of another stay-at-home order. Personally, I hope we do not ever see another shutdown, because the economic effects are devastating, especially to people in certain industries and those with lower income levels. But if the medical system approaches catastrophe, I believe that it should remain an option of last resort.

Finally, many of you have also asked about children’s safety. The national press has reported on a COVID19-related illness termed Pediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (PMIS) that resembles Kawasaki’s disease. The CDC has issued a call to physicians to be watchful. This illness still appears to be VERY rare and only based on a case-series. Until more data become available, I believe that most children are still extremely safe with regard to COVID19 risk.

The way forward

In comparison to the last three months, the way forward is more uncertain and we have no easy or ideal societal response. We have learned a lot and prepared much during the lockdown. We had flattened the curve considerably. But unfortunately, Arizona’s numbers are now rising fast, and our ICU bed availability is somewhat low.

Unlike many of the political debates of our time, this situation does not lend itself to sound bites, slogans and rhetoric. Our discussion should be thoughtful, science-based, empathetic and nuanced rather than cavalier or driven by ideology or fear.

As a public health professional, I ask you to imagine you are in a grocery store and someone’s beloved grandmother is nearby. For the safety of your neighbors, friends and fellow Americans, please wear a mask so you do not accidentally give them a deadly disease. Please stay at least six feet away from others in all settings, but especially indoors. Let’s work together to provide protection to our most vulnerable groups.

If you are a senior or in a vulnerable group, please try to stay home and avoid other people as much as possible. Younger people should realize that by spreading the virus, they increase prevalence and that puts others at risk by direct infection and also by consuming hospital capacity.

Thank you again for all of your consideration and your courage through these difficult times. Though it seems as though the social fabric of our country stretches thin, I believe that our national discourse has helped us see and understand ourselves more clearly, make us stronger, and continually make us a more perfect union.

Dr. Amish Shah is a state legislator and an emergency medical physician in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey laid out a multitude of goals for 2020 that revolve around issues important to business and industry during his sixth State of the State address Monday.

Among his priorities? No new taxes. Stronger ties with Mexico. Innovation in water conservation and management. Broadband for rural areas. Workforce training. Highway expansion. And much more.

Ducey, whose tenure has centered around spurring economic growth and boosting the state’s “rainy day” reserves to a whopping $1 billion, stated that businesses and citizens can expect more of the same this year.

“We got here by doing things our way. The Arizona way. And I’m here to tell you, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet,” Ducey said as he addressed a crowd of lawmakers, civic leaders and others at the state Capitol to coincide with the opening day of the legislative session.

Building on state’s economic boom

The governor spoke for over an hour, laying out plans to increase funding for academic achievement for low-income children, pay raises for many state workers, increased mental health services and reduced government fees and “red tape.”

He also touted Arizona’s successes.

The state now outshines most of the country in almost every venue, he said: “The prime rate is dropping, school test scores are rising, and our debt is way down. Household incomes have hit a record high and our poverty rate has dropped faster than any other state in the nation.”

Arizona already outshines rest of nation

Arizona now is in the top ten when it comes to jobs in transportation, technology, science and healthcare, Ducey said.

He highlighted keystones of his administration: eliminating regulatory red tape, reducing government fees and making Arizona the first state to grant universal recognition of out-of-state occupational licenses.

It’s no surprise why 300 people are moving here every day, he said.

“Other states and Washington, D.C. politicians may be focused on growing government. Arizona grows opportunity,” Ducey said. “Our population is surging, but the size of our government is actually shrinking.”

Here are eight business takeaways from Ducey’s speech:

No new taxes

“Let me reiterate what I’ve said in five prior State of the State speeches and two inaugural addresses, because apparently it bears repeating. No new taxes. Not this session. Not next session. Not here in this chamber. Not at the ballot box. Not on my watch.”

Investment in teachers, students and schools

“In total, we’ve pumped $4.5 billion in new investments into Arizona schools. With our latest budget, that figure will rise to $6.6 billion. And we’ve done all of this without raising taxes.

“In addition, an even larger investment in school counselors, cops on campus and school safety. A stronger focus on CTE (Career and Technical Education) and the trades. More money for the Arizona Teachers Academy and Teach for America. And a full, complete and accelerated restoration of flexible funding two years ahead of schedule.”

Rural jobs

“There’s no shortage of new jobs in Arizona, but many vital jobs remain unfilled in our rural communities. So, we’ve got a plan — a Rural Jobs Initiative.

“First, tourism and state parks. There’s no place more beautiful to vacation than scenic Arizona, and with an infusion of new dollars, we’re going to work with Tourism Director Debbie Johnson to ensure the whole world knows it.

“Next, workforce. Small business is the backbone of our economy. So, we’re launching a partnership with Local First Arizona to strengthen small businesses, get rural Arizonans back to work and bolster our local economies.”

Long term water planning

“We will continue to protect Lake Mead, the Colorado River, groundwater and our [agriculture] jobs. But we shouldn’t be dealing with this issue one generation at a time. We need a strategic ongoing effort to turn Arizona into the international capital for water technology.

“Look at all that Israel has done. Why not Arizona? We’ve been a leader on water, and with this approach, we will continue to be an even stronger leader far into the future.”

Improving infrastructure with I-10’s widening

“The Phoenix-Tucson corridor is an economic artery for our state, and it needs expanding. It’s time to accelerate completion of I-10’s widening — in both directions — between our two largest cities.

“Our budget puts the pedal to the metal with the construction of a new six-lane bridge over the Gila River. This replaces a 56-year-old bridge. 62,000 people drive over it every day. That’s 23 million a year. So, let’s break ground ASAP.”

Connecting rural Arizona to high-speed internet

“Rural areas still lack high-speed internet. Let’s triple our investment in Rural Broadband Grants and also invest $50 million in Smart Highway Corridors to install broadband along our rural interstates.

“This will make our highways safer and smarter than ever before and pave the way to get all of rural Arizona logged on.”

Filling labor gaps

“ASU, U of A and NAU have also stepped up to fuel our economy, and we’re about to pour on the gas. [Arizona Board of] Regents Chair Larry Penley has proposed what he calls ‘The New Economy Initiative.’

“It’s an innovative approach that enhances our capacity to graduate more students for the critical jobs of today and tomorrow. It’s just the latest effort by our universities to solve problems and do it the Arizona way.”

Eliminating government red tape

“I’ve issued a new Executive Order, with a new reform: If the government ever deems a new regulation absolutely necessary, it must first identify three others to eliminate. The result: New regulations will naturally mean less regulations.”

Business community cheers

The Arizona business community leaders cheered the governor’s message of continued economic momentum.

“Small-business owners are thrilled to hear that despite record state revenues, our governor will not be going on a spending spree with our taxpayer dollars,” said Chad Heinrich, the Arizona state director for the National Federation of Independent Business. “While states like our neighbor California and others like Illinois and New York continue to lose residents, Arizona is the No. 1 inbound state for a reason: Low taxes, reasonable regulations and a government that is open to small-business entrepreneurs.”

Arizona �鶹��ýӳ�� of Commerce of Industry President and CEO Glenn Hamer was equally enthusiastic about the governor’s message and his pledge to hold the line on efforts to overspend.

“The governor made clear that he is going to work to improve our state’s tax climate, while removing regulatory barriers to growth. Competitive tax and regulatory environments have been central to our economic growth,” Hamer said. “We share his commitment to strongly resisting measures that will reverse our economic progress.”

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In the latest episode of Ham(m)er Time! Glenn Hamer, president and CEO of the Arizona �鶹��ýӳ�� of Commerce and Industry, sat down with Arizona Senate President Karen Fann and talked about the transition to her new leadership role, the importance of the DCP and the hidden gems of Prescott.

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The Greater Phoenix �鶹��ýӳ�� Political Action Committee (GPC PAC) is endorsing 55 candidates for the Arizona Legislature and 4 statewide candidates in the , including Governor Doug Ducey for reelection and Steve Gaynor for Secretary of State.

“Governor Ducey has shown true leadership on business issues since elected governor four years ago,” said Todd Sanders, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix �鶹��ýӳ�� (GPC). “We applaud Governor Ducey for fostering Arizona’s economic growth through sound policy and strategic investments. With Governor Ducey’s influence and guidance, Arizona is once again leading the way on tough issues and is being shown in a positive light on the national stage.”

The GPC PAC closely evaluated the primary election results to determine which candidates’ platforms are most conducive to a robust economy, said PAC Chairman John Moody.

“These candidates understand the importance of maintaining a pro-business environment and support public policies that provide a strong foundation for Arizona businesses to prosper, grow and create new jobs,” Moody said.

The GPC PAC also endorsed Kimberly Yee (R) for Treasurer, Mark Brnovich (R) for Attorney General and Steve Gaynor (R) for Secretary of State.

State Senator Yee was elected in 2010 to serve Arizona’s 20th Legislative District. strong economic growth, low taxes, limited government spending and freedom of choice in education and healthcare.

“Senator Yee has been one of Arizona’s most open lawmakers, listening to and helping implement the business community’s needs during her tenure in the Legislature,” Sanders said. “Senator Yee’s sharp intellect and common sense approach to governing will leave the state’s finances in great hands.”

Brnovich was elected Attorney General in 2014. During his tenure in office, he has demanding huge settlements. Brnovich has expressed disdain for fraudulent charities preying on “Americans’ patriotism and their compassion for our veterans and military,” and the Attorney General’s office passed consumer protection legislation as a result,.

Perhaps most notably, Brnovich announced in May that auto giant as part of a consumer fraud settlement over its diesel emissions scandal, directing $10.5 million to Arizona consumers who had purchased VW-made vehicles and $20 million to the state K-12 education budget.

“General Brnovich has proven to be a stalwart protector of the business community’s interests,” Sanders said. “General Brnovich was instrumental in protecting the business community from frivolous lawsuits filed by serial litigators in the name of disability compliance. Most impressive has been his focus on upholding Arizona’s laws without regard to politics.”

Gaynor is a graduate of Harvard Business School and has spent nearly forty years in the printing businesses. This is Gaynor’s first time seeking elected office.

“The Greater Phoenix �鶹��ýӳ�� is pleased to endorse Steve Gaynor as Secretary of State,” Sander said. “Mr. Gaynor has proved to be a business leader in Arizona and will bring that expertise with him to the Secretary of State’s Office.”

In August the GPC PAC endorsed Daniel Valenzuela, a nonpartisan city councilman, for mayor of Phoenix.

“While Phoenix voters are very fortunate to have several well-qualified candidates running for Mayor who would all likely serve the city well and move Phoenix forward, Daniel Valenzuela has a unique understanding and vision for the future of our city focusing on growth, innovation and fostering economic development and prosperity, making him the best choice for mayor,” Moody said.

The GPC supports candidates who align with the organization’s mission to generate economic prosperity, Sanders said.

“With a rigorous vetting process and endorsement standard, the �鶹��ýӳ��’s PAC continues to support candidates that will be advocates for economic growth,” he said. “We are pleased to endorse these leaders.”

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