SE Valley Times

An independent report from the Common Sense Institute Arizona has revealed that Governor Hobbs' housing moratorium in the Phoenix Active Management Area (AMA) could potentially cost the state $2 billion in real GDP over the next decade. The report highlights that this moratorium results in "reduced homebuilding" and "higher home prices elsewhere." It further predicts a loss of 18,654 jobs, a population decline of 74,354 people, and a $3.9 billion reduction in personal income by 2035.

House Majority Leader Michael Carbone responded to the findings, stating, "The independent report from the Common Sense Institute verifies what Arizona House and Senate Republicans have been saying all along." He criticized Governor Hobbs’ water policies for leading to an "illegal housing moratorium" which he claims has created an artificial growth boundary around Phoenix. Carbone argues that this is contributing to rising home prices and limited availability for Arizona families.

Carbone emphasized that Republicans have proposed solutions aimed at preserving water while allowing for the immediate lifting of the moratorium. He said, "There is no longer any justification for continuing a policy that hurts our economy and worsens the housing crisis."

Carbone also echoed sentiments from Representative Nick Kupper, who previously described maintaining the moratorium as a political choice rather than a regulatory necessity. Carbone urged Governor Hobbs to collaborate with Republican lawmakers on legislation to lift the moratorium and increase housing supply.

Michael Carbone serves as a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives for Legislative District 25, covering parts of Yuma, Maricopa, and La Paz Counties. He is also the House Majority Leader.

Information from this article can be found here.