PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Arizona Technology Council applauds Governor Doug Ducey on his proposed FY 2021 executive budget, especially with its emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
The governor’s executive budget plan totals nearly $12.5 billion. The proposal includes roughly 6% in additional spending over the budget enacted last year, nearly half of which is earmarked for education. With the final installment of the 20X2020 teacher pay raise and the complete restoration of the additional assistance, Governor Ducey continues his commitment to Education. Additionally, the focus on STEM funding, especially in Rural Arizona, is the type of investment that will keep the state’s economy strong and cement why Arizona is such a great place to live and work.
Below are some of the STEM and technology focused proposals from Governor Ducey’s budget proposal:
- $35 million to a “New Economy” initiative to support Arizona’s workforce
- $10 million for Governor’s research and grants matching funds as a part of the “New Economy” initiative
- $11 million in restorations to STEM and Workforce Programs in Maricopa, Pima and Pinal community colleges
- $6 million to rural community college districts to meet the demand for career and technical programs
- $4 million to expand the Arizona Advanced Technology Corridor
- $10 million to triple state’s investment in Rural Broadband Grants
This type of investment will help support Arizona’s growing technology industry and prepare our workforce for the jobs our tech companies need.
“With Arizona’s technology sector growing at a pace 40% faster than the rest of the nation, we are increasingly pleased with the Governor’s leadership in investing in K12, higher education and specifically in STEM,” said Steven G. Zylstra, the Council’s president and CEO. “The Council is advocating for STEM ecosystem investment and cultivation as one of its 2020 legislative priorities, and we look forward to working with the Governor on making our vision a reality.”
From the Office of the Governor and the U.S. Congress to legislative committee rooms and city halls across the state, the Council serves as the voice advocating for a technology-based, pro-growth, business-focused agenda.
The Council recently released its 2020 Public Policy Guide designed to inform the Governor, the Legislature, Arizona’s Congressional delegation and the Council’s more than 850 member companies along with the wider technology community of the organization’s advocacy activities, principles and positions. It also aims to help elected officials at all levels of government as they craft policies affecting Arizona’s economy and technology sector for years to come.
Visit www.aztechcouncil.org to learn more about the Council’s public policy activities.
About the Arizona Technology Council
The Arizona Technology Council is Arizona’s premier trade association for science and technology companies. Recognized as having a diverse professional business community, Council members work towards furthering the advancement of technology in Arizona through leadership, education, legislation and social action. The Council offers numerous events, educational forums and business conferences that bring together leaders, visionaries and community members to make an impact on the technology industry. These interactions contribute to the Council’s culture of growing member businesses and transforming technology in Arizona. To become a member or to learn more about the Arizona Technology Council, please visit www.aztechcouncil.org.
