Four Cornerstones of Reform

Modernizing State Government

Medicaid Reform

  • Arizona has instituted historic reforms to modernize Medicaid for the future. Our plan, which has been submitted to the federal government for consideration, allows the state to:
  • Maintain coverage for current AHCCCS members while shrinking Medicaid rolls over time
  • Make greater use of co-pays to encourage AHCCCS members to take greater responsibility for their care
  • Preserve the Medicaid program while reducing the taxpayer burden – including $500 million in savings in the first year alone.

    • Balanced Budget

    • For the first time in years, the State of Arizona not only has a balanced budget –
      we have a budget surplus! This didn’t happen by accident. It is the result of tough decisions and a conservative approach. Governor Brewer has always said she’d like her legacy to be a State of Arizona on firm fiscal ground. With her leadership, that is where we’re headed.

    Pension Reform

    • Comprehensive pension reform was approved to preserve the solvency of the system. The reform increases employee contributions while easing the burden on taxpayers. It cracks down on abuses -- like double-dipping – and helps ensure Arizona’s state pension system is healthy for the future.