VOTE YES! ON 312

BACKGROUND

The national homelessness crisis is impacting Arizona, and this November voters will have a chance to do something about it – by voting YES on Proposition 312. Safe neighborhoods and law and order are vital to our quality of life and our economy in Arizona. Proposition 312 helps keep things that way and aims to stem the tide of increased homelessness. 

WHAT IT DOES

Under Proposition 312, a property owner can apply for a tax refund if the government fails to enforce basic laws regarding illegal camping, obstructing public thoroughfares, loitering, panhandling, public urination, and possessions of illegal substances. The fact is, if these laws are not enforced, property owners pay the price in the form of increased security and upkeep costs and, ultimately, lower property values. 

WHY IT MATTERS

Over the last several years, we’ve seen a dramatic spike in homelessness. This is both a humanitarian and a public safety crisis. A recent study by the non-partisan Common Sense Institute found that over the last three years, Arizona’s homeless population has increased nearly 30%. In total, we are spending more than $1 billion a year as a state addressing it, according to the study. 

BOTTOM LINE

Prop. 312 adds accountability. Unfortunately, too often basic laws are not being enforced. In other cities, this has led to increased homelessness and crime spiraling out of control. Prop. 312 helps ensure we don’t face some of the problems major cities like Portland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles have experienced.