Arizona Advocacy That Moves the Needle—Before It’s Too Late
- Kate Mayeski
- May 24
- 3 min read
The budget reconciliation process is underway in the U.S. Senate—and with it, a critical opportunity to fight for the future of Arizona families. This isn’t just another legislative cycle. This is the moment to show up, speak up, and ensure that the most essential programs in our communities don’t get quietly cut behind closed doors.
We don’t get many windows like this. Right now, the language of this bill is still being shaped. Once it’s finalized, the door closes. That’s why nonprofit leaders across the country are mobilizing. Because we know what happens when we wait—we get left out.
The Programs at Risk: What Arizona Could Lose
Medicaid and SNAP: Safety Nets on the Chopping Block
Nearly 2 million Arizonans depend on Medicaid. Over 700,000 rely on SNAP for food security. Cutting these programs isn’t balancing a budget—it’s pulling the floor out from under real people.
Tax Credits That Keep Families Afloat
The Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit have proven track records of reducing poverty and boosting household stability. Congress must keep them strong—at $2,500 or more for the CTC—or risk pushing families back into crisis.
Arizona’s Child Care Crisis: A Ticking Time Bomb
We are failing our youngest residents. Over 180,000 Arizona children under five are missing out on publicly funded early learning—and over 56% of our state is a child care desert. This isn’t just a family issue—it’s an economic one.
Parents can’t work without care. Employers can’t hire if workers stay home. And kids can’t succeed without a strong foundation. This is how the cycle of poverty continues.
Housing Affordability Is in Jeopardy
LIHTC Is One of Our Last Tools—and It’s Stalled
The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit has helped fund thousands of units of attainable housing across the state. But its renewal is stuck in the Arizona Legislature. Without it, projects will die, and families will stay stuck without options.
This Is Bigger Than Budget Lines—It’s a Value Statement
“Arizonans need to understand how these proposed changes will impact our lives—and ensure our legislators hear us,” says David Scott, Market President for First Western Bank & Trust, small business and nonprofit advocate, and community builder.
“Healthcare, food security, affordable housing, and early childhood programs shouldn’t be seen as expenses. They are proven investments in our communities, delivering strong returns for taxpayers. For instance, long-term studies on early childhood programs show returns as high as 18%, driven by higher earnings, reduced crime, and stronger local economies. We must shift the conversation toward reducing government spending through practical, thoughtful reforms—not by cutting support for our most vulnerable neighbors.”
Take Action While It Still Matters
You Still Have Time to Make a Difference—But Not Much
The Senate is drafting this bill right now. The next few weeks will determine what makes it in—and what gets left behind.
Click here to review the fact sheets and send your message. It’s fast. It’s pre-filled. You don’t need the perfect words—just your name and your voice.
Why This Should Be Your Top Priority
Use the ICE Method to Cut Through the Noise
Not sure where to focus? Here’s why this moment makes the cut:
Impact: These policies touch health, housing, education, and income.
Confidence: We've seen public pressure shift legislation before.
Ease: This takes less than 60 seconds to complete.
This is the kind of ROI we rarely see in advocacy.
Silence Isn’t Neutral
Budgets are statements of priorities. If we don’t fight for Arizona’s most critical needs now, we’re silently agreeing to let them fall off the table. And the people who will pay the price? Families. Children. Seniors. Neighbors.
Let’s not wait until after the decisions are made. Let’s speak now—clearly and collectively.
Additional Resources for Arizona Residents & Advocates
If you’re ready to take the next step—whether that’s contacting your representatives, learning about local policy, or getting more involved—these resources can help:
Arizona State Government
Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) – Includes programs for child care, food assistance, housing, and health.
Arizona Department of Health Services – Public health programs and Medicaid info (AHCCCS).
Arizona Department of Housing – LIHTC updates and housing program details.
Civic Engagement & Advocacy Tools
Have another trusted resource you think belongs here? Let’s keep building this list and make it easier for Arizonans to find the information—and the influence—they need.
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