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Implications for Arizona

February 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment

On Tuesday, two judges on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the California marriage amendment approved by a vote of the people is unconstitutional. Once again, we see judges making law, not interpreting law. Read the opinion here. Incredibly the judges can find no “rational basis” for Californians to uphold marriage.

Thankfully, this is not the final chapter in the fight to protect marriage. Let’s all remember that this is the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals – the most overturned circuit court in the country. Shortly after the decision was released, our friends at Alliance Defense Fund and ProtectMarriage.com announced they would be appealing the decision.

There are two key “take-aways” from the opinion:

  1. When states adopt laws granting legal status and other recognition to individuals on the basis of their sexual orientation, the courts are more likely to say you can’t define marriage as only the union of one man and one woman. This is one problem with civil unions, domestic partnerships, and so-called non-discrimination policies. These laws set up the argument that you cannot grant special legal recognition to persons on the basis of their sexual orientation yet deny them marriage. CAP continues to oppose efforts at the legislature to pass such laws.
  2. The U.S. President nominates and the U.S. Senate confirms the judges who sit on the Ninth Circuit and the U.S. Supreme Courts. When you cast your vote in 2012, know your vote counts in deciding who gets to nominate and confirm judges.

Check out the Marriage Counterfeits Issue Brief on AZPolicyPages.com to learn more about this topic.

Now We’re Rolling
We had a full week at the state legislature. Six CAP-supported bills were heard either in committee or on the House or Senate Floor. Here are some of the highlights:

  • The “wrongful life” bill was heard in the Senate Health committee. Sponsored by Sen. Nancy Barto, SB 1359 prohibits so-called “wrongful life” and “wrongful birth” lawsuits against medical professionals for not diagnosing a birth defect of a preborn child, which, if known, would have led to the child being aborted. This bill is about ensuring that every life – whether born with a disability or not – is valued. CAP Legal Counsel Deborah Sheasby testified in support, drawing many questions from those who favor abortion. The bill passed 3-2.
  • The Senate Government Reform Committee passed by a 4-2-1 vote legislation to protect the rights of conscience of individuals who are licensed or certified by the state. Sponsored by Senator Steve Yarbrough, SB 1365 ensures no professional licensed by the state can be discriminated against because of the practice of his or her faith. I testified in support of the bill, along with ADF Senior Legal Counsel Joe Infanco.
  • Deborah also testified for another CAP-supported bill passed with bi-partisan support in the House Education Committee. HB 2770 passed 7-1 and protects college and university professors from being denied tenure because of their religious convictions or political beliefs. Read more about why Rep. Tom Forese sponsored this legislation in the East Valley Tribune.

The other big news of the week is the CAP-supported Mother’s Health and Safety Act introduced by Representative Kimberly Yee. You can read more about HB 2838 from the Associated Press. And, be sure to check out CAP’s Bill Tracker for current status on our bills and to access our Fact Sheets. Several more bills will be heard in committees next week. We’d appreciate your prayers as we work these bills through the legislative process.
Filed Under: Judicial, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , , ,

Flying Out of the Gates

January 13, 2012 By

Only a week into session and two CAP-supported bills have passed out of a committee. SB 1047 and SB 1048 strengthen and expand Arizona’s Scholarship Tax Credit program, which gives a dollar-for-dollar tax credit to donations to School Tuition Organizations (STOs). STOs then provide families with scholarships so their children can attend the school of the parents’ choice.
Praying for those in Authority
At dawn Monday before the session began, concerned citizens from across the state participated in our annual Prayer Walk. We walked the grounds of the state Capitol, including the House and Senate floors, praying for our elected officials, the current legislative session, and for the future of Arizona. I hope you join me in continuous prayer for all of those in positions of authority.
Standing for Life
Opening day was full of citizens exercising their First Amendment rights. Planned Parenthood held a rally to push the pro-abortion agenda and tell legislators “women are watching them.” As it turns out, pro-life women are watching too, and Brooke Burns and the Arizona Right to Life crew held an impromptu rally to show our elected officials support for standing for life. Carrying signs that say “We Love You – Choose Life,” about 40 people boldly stood out in the Capitol lawn in support of preborn children and protecting the health and safety of women.
Arizona Day of Prayer Challenged … again
The Freedom From Religion Foundation has once again filed a lawsuit over the Arizona Day of Prayer, but this time in state court. You may recall a federal court judge tossed out FFRF’s lawsuit against the Day of Prayer in federal court. Prayer has been at the foundation of our country from the very beginning, and it is simply absurd that organizations like this are trying to rewrite history and block religious speech in the public square. Click here to listen to my interview with Family News in Focus on the lawsuit.
WARNING: Divorce Comes with Unexpected Side Effects
The University of Arizona released a review this week of more than 30 studies on the harms of divorce. They found that individuals that go through a divorce run a significant higher risk of dying earlier than married couples. In fact, they found that risks associated with divorce are similar to smoking and excessive drinking. Read more here.
CAP Back on Radio

Be sure to tune in daily to 960 AM The Patriot before the Hugh Hewitt Show in the afternoon and KPXQ 1360 AM The Christian Station in Phoenix to catch me on the Patriot Policy Minute. For you northern Arizonans, remember to tune into 90.9 FM Radio Shine every Friday for the CAP Family Minute, our weekly update from the legislature.
Filed Under: Legislation, Marriage, Religion, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , ,

Marriage: It’s What’s Good for Children

December 9, 2011 By

Marriage: It’s What’s Good for Children
Many today have forgotten the common good marriage between one man and one woman provides for our culture. A challenge we all face is how to restore marriage to its valued place of honor and importance. Marriage is a positive good for our country – it’s life-giving.Over the last few decades, marriage has been devalued through no-fault divorce, cohabitation, and even those that want to redefine marriage altogether.Perhaps no one has suffered more from the decline in the value of marriage than children. Yet many deny and fail to understand the negative impact divorce and court decisions redefining marriage have on children.Thankfully, as more research becomes available on the harms of cohabitation and divorce on children, policy makers are stepping up to address these problems. Last session, the Arizona Legislature passed a CAP-supported divorce reform bill, which adds information about the effects of divorce on adults and children to the mandatory parenting education classes for divorcing parents of minor children and allows couples to ask for additional time to reconcile before a divorce is finalized.On the Witherspoon Institute’s Public Discourse blog, Professor Helen Alvaré writes about how across the country more officials are beginningto recognize the impact bad policy on marriage has on children.Another excellent resource is Why Marriage Matters by the Institute for American Values, which documents thirty conclusions from the social sciences on why marriage is good for our country.
Alan Chambers in the Lion’s Den
World magazine has named Alan Chambers, president of Exodus International, as their 2011 Daniel. Exodus ministers to those struggling with homosexuality.
I applaud World for their selection. Take time to read the article. Most importantly, take time to pray for Alan and the Exodus team who daily come under constant assault and attack from the media and opponents. You can send your encouragements to him on Twitter, @alanmchambers.

Frontline Public Policy Experience
CAP is now accepting intern applications for policy and communication interns to serve during the upcoming legislative session. Interning with CAP during session provides college students with real-life experience down at the state Capitol working in public policy. Click here for details of both positions. Please forward this opportunity to those who might be interested and qualified.

Exploiting the Poor
On the Foundations blog this week, CAP Legislative Coordinator Dave Ernest explores how gambling – either at a casino or through the lottery – exploits the poor. He presents yet another case why the expansion of gambling is never right for our state.

Good, But Unexpected, News
The abortion industry has a long history of putting their agenda ahead of the health and safety of women – and especially of minor girls. Pushing for over-the-counter availability of the “morning-after” pill is just one of the many ways their lobbying puts women at risk.
In a surprising turn of events this week, Kathleen Sebelius, the head of the federal Health and Human Services Department and an outspoken abortion advocate, overruled an FDA decision that would have made the morning-after pill, which can act as an abortifacient, available over the counter to girls younger than 17 without a prescription. Read more about this decision from Family Research Council.

CA Marriage Amendment Back in Court
Yesterday, our friends at ProtectMarriage.com and Alliance Defense Fund were back in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to defend the majority of Californians who voted to protect marriage as the union of one man and one woman.
Read more about this hearing, and why a lower court’s ruling, which overturned the marriage amendment, had some serious problems.
Filed Under: Family, Gaming, Homosexuality, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , ,

Never Let Our Guard Down

December 2, 2011 By 226 Comments

Never Let Our Guard Down
Just a little over three years ago, 56% of Arizona voters decided to add these 20 simple words to our state Constitution:

Only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state.

While the marriage amendment victory was a critical step to protecting marriage in Arizona, we would be foolish to think our work is done to ensure marriage is never redefined. A recent poll from the liberal Public Policy Polling group claims a smaller margin of Arizona voters now support traditional marriage – 45% say same-sex “marriage” should be illegal, and 44% say it should be legal. Their poll also says that a majority of voters think that Arizona should establish marriage counterfeits like domestic partnerships.

Of course, the poll did not ask whether marriage should be defined as only the union of one man and one woman. The questions were not exactly neutral, and the polling company typically works for those who want to redefine marriage. The obvious intent is to begin laying a foundation to ask Arizona voters to redefine marriage in the next ten years or so.

The poll shows the “never give up” commitment of marriage opponents to eventually win on the marriage issue. These organizations are well funded and are well organized. Marriage opponents will be out registering voters and working hard to influence the 2012 elections. At CAP, our team will never let our guard down in our stand to see marriage stay the union of one man and one woman.

Intern with CAP!
The next legislative session is just a month away, and we’re looking for policy and communications interns for the upcoming legislative session. This is a great opportunity to get first-hand experience working in public policy down at the state legislature. If you know any college students interested, please help us spread the word!
 

Christmas Giving and Tax Credits
I hope you will join me in participating in Arizona’s tax credit opportunities, subject to your accountant’s advice. These programs allow you to give a gift up to a certain amount to schools and non profit organizations and receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit back for your gift. Here are a few ways to give, and some organizations that have really made a positive impact on our community:

  • Public School Tax Credit: Individuals can receive a tax credit for donations up to $200 and couples up to $400 that go towards extra curricular programs at public or charter schools. Consider giving your public school tax credit to schools in impoverished areas of our state. One to consider is Fay Landrum Academy in south Phoenix.
  • Individual Tax Credit: School Tuition Organizations like Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization (ACSTO), Tuition Organization for Private Schools (TOPS), and Arizona Private Education Scholarship Fund, provide scholarships to thousands of families to choose a private school that best meets their children’s needs. Individuals can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit on gifts up to $500, and married couples up to $1,000. Click here to view a complete list of School Tuition Organizations.
  • Charitable Tax Credit: Like the public school credit, individuals can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for gifts up to $200 and married couples can receive a tax credit for gifts up to $400. Consider supporting one of the pregnancy care centers that qualify for the charitable tax credit. Or consider supporting Christian Family Care and their work to find homes for kids in foster care through their Connect One program. Click here to view the complete list of organizations that are eligible for the Charitable Tax Credit.
Filed Under: Family, Marriage, Taxation Tagged With: , , ,

Not the Way Out

November 18, 2011 By 1 Comment

Not the Way Out

The budget crisis across the country is on everyone’s mind. Just this week, our national debt topped $15 trillion. In Arizona, our leaders are seeking ways to responsibly meet our own state budget needs.

As the Legislature searches for ways to balance our state budget, with some wanting to increase state revenues, I am becoming increasingly concerned that the expansion of gambling is being considered. Changing our state laws to allow casinos at racetracks – “racinos” – would dramatically change the character of our state and impact families.

Legislators shouldn’t balance the budget on the backs of Arizona’s families. The harms of gambling, while not often discussed, are very real. You can read more of on this on the Foundations blog.

Thankfully, more than half of the members of the House and of the Senate indicated in CAP’s 2010 Voter Guide that they would oppose “Allowing slot machines and table games off Indian reservations.” I remain confident that they will stay true to their word and not allow gambling to expand.

Still a Long Way to Go
A few weeks ago, I told you that abortions in Arizona had dropped by 30% in September, according to newly released Department of Health Services data. This week, DHS released updated numbers showing that the decrease in numbers continues but not at the 30% pace originally reported. The good news is that abortions still dropped by 417 over the last three months compared to the same time period in 2010. No doubt the drop in abortions directly resulted from the court decision upholding the Abortion Consent Act, the enactment of Arizona’s ultrasound requirement, and Planned Parenthood’s ending abortion services at seven of their ten clinics.

The new data, however, deeply troubles me because 179 preborn children have been aborted at 20 and 21 weeks from January-October 2011, and children can survive outside of the womb at 20 weeks. It’s a sign of how much work remains when babies who could clearly survive outside their mother’s wombs are not surviving inside their mother’s womb.

Key Victory for Marriage Proponents in California
Finally, good news from California’s Prop 8 litigation! The California Supreme Court ruled yesterday that the ProtectMarriage.com legal team can defend the state marriage amendment in court. You may recall that the state governor and attorney general both refused to defend the marriage amendment on behalf of the voters. Yesterday’s decision puts in place the strongest legal team to represent the right of voters to define marriage.

All eyes are on the Prop 8 case, Perry v Brown, as it likely will determine whether individual states have the right to define marriage as the union of one man and one woman or whether the federal courts will take away that right.

Weak Arguments
Also this week, a federal court judge heard arguments from the state and the ACLU about a CAP-supported bill that disqualifies donations to organizations that provide, promote, pay for, or provide referrals for abortion from being eligible for the working poor tax credit. The ACLU, representing the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence, is arguing that Arizona should be forced to provide the benefit of the working poor tax credit to organizations that refer women for abortion.

CAP is supporting the state’s defense. On the Foundations blog this week, our Legal Counsel Deborah Sheasby explains why the ACLU’s case is based on weak arguments.
Filed Under: Family, Gaming, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Tuesday’s Election Results

November 11, 2011 By 13 Comments

Tuesday’s Election Results
For some conservatives, Tuesday’s elections across the country were a disappointment. I caution you to not read too much into these election results. No doubt, though, our work is cut out for us in the 2012 elections to register voters, educate voters, and turn out values voters.

I’ve been asked about the defeat of the “Personhood Amendment” in Mississippi. The intent of this amendment was to define life as beginning at conception and stop legalized abortion. Previously, Colorado had defeated a similar amendment twice. Nevada proponents are working to put the amendment on their next ballot.

While I support the goal behind “Personhood,” I join with many other national pro-life leaders and strategists in favoring a different approach in our efforts to protect preborn life and mothers. I do not consider the Mississippi results to be a setback for the pro-life movement. Rather, the pro-life movement continues to move forward with 86 new pro-life laws passing this year alone in states. Those laws are resulting in fewer abortions. Our U.S. House has a pro-life majority. Further, in recent years, more and more people continue to identify themselves as “pro-life” instead of “pro-choice.” The dream of living in a country that respects the sanctity of human life from its very beginning to its natural end is not far-fetched. To get there though, it will take wise leadership, patience, and most importantly prayer.

Regarding the recall of Senate President Russell Pearce in Legislative District 18, I thank Sen. Pearce for his unwavering stands through the years in defense of preborn life, school choice, religious liberty, and marriage. Sen. Pearce never hesitated to support CAP’s legislative agenda. He always was available to help us move bills through the process and speak out in support of life, marriage and family, and religious liberty.
The Arizona legislature is still overwhelmingly pro-life and pro-family, with a two-thirds majority in both the House and the Senate. I am looking forward to working with the legislature in the upcoming session to promote and defend foundational values.

Marriage Opponents in Corporate America
You may be surprised to learn that 70 corporations – including some of our country’s most recognizable brands – filed a friend-of-the-court brief in support of overturning the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in a federal lawsuit.

Microsoft, Starbucks, Google, NIKE, Levi Strauss and Co., CBS, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mass., Time Warner Cable, and Xerox all signed onto the brief filed in the case of Commonwealth of Massachusetts v. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, urging the court to deem DOMA unconstitutional.
This is a growing and disturbing trend in the country. Individuals determined to completely redefine marriage are working behind the scenes in positions of power throughout corporate America to radically change the most important institution in our culture and isolate those of us who believe in the true definition of marriage.
Other examples include when TOMS Shoes, a for-profit organization that donates shoes to children in Africa for every pair sold, broke off a partnership with Focus on the Family due to pressure from homosexual activists. Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz buckled under the same pressure and canceled a speaking engagement at Willow Creek Community Church because of their biblical views on sexuality.
Pray that those within these corporations who support foundational principles, especially marriage, would stand up and oppose these moves.
William Wilberforce Award
I was honored to receive the news that I will be awarded the William Wilberforce Award at the First Annual Students for Life West Coast Gala tomorrow for my efforts to promote and defend life in public policy.
Defending the sanctity of human life has been one of God’s great callings in my life, and I am truly blessed to be receiving this award named for one of my heroes, the great abolitionist William Wilberforce.
I am grateful to Students for Life for the recognition, and I share this award with our amazing team at Center for Arizona Policy – both past and present – and with all of our ministry friends.

Forced to Perform Abortions
Read the story of the 12 nurses whose employer is trying to force them to participate in abortions on the Foundations blog, and how, thanks to the Abortion Consent Act, Arizona’s healthcare professionals are free from this type of persecution.

 
Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Conservatives, Elected Officials, Family, Homosexuality, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , ,

Center for Arizona Policy: There’s a lot on the line

November 4, 2011 By

There’s a lot on the line
In just four days, three very important elections will be taking place in Arizona that will have a profound impact on the state for years to come. In Tucson and Phoenix, voters will be electing new mayors. In Legislative District 18, voters are faced with a historic recall election between current Senate President Russell Pearce and challenger Jerry Lewis.CAP has published Voter Guides in all three of these elections on azvoterguide.com. City elections particularly are often overlooked, but local governments are playing an increasingly larger role in the lives of Arizona families. If you live in these communities, do not sit out these races! Be informed, and vote your values. If you don’t live in these communities, be sure your friends and family cast their ballots.One last important point – if you received an early ballot, it is too late to mail it in. For your vote to count, you must drop it off at an election center.
There’s a lot on the line, Part II
I’ve been getting asked “What’s up with this redistricting fiasco?” Make no mistake – what happens with redistricting of Arizona’s congressional and legislative district boundaries will determine the makeup of Arizona’s congressional delegation and State Legislature for the next 10 years. Don’t believe all you read in the newspapers.In 2000, voters approved Proposition 106 to establish a five-person “Independent Redistricting Commission” (IRC) to draw district lines rather than leave the task to the State Legislature. This commission is made up of two Republicans, two Democrats, and one Independent, who serves as the commission chair.The district lines drawn by the IRC must meet several constitutional requirements. Read a legal overview of the process here. Numerous and very serious legal questions have been raised about whether this year’s IRC has conducted a fair and open process, whether the mapping consultant and independent chair have political biases, and whether the draft district lines follow the constitutionally required criteria – like ensuring communities of interest are together and that the districts are geographically compact.
This week, Governor Jan Brewer and the State Senate concluded the IRC had not followed the constitutional requirements for redistricting. Pursuant to the authority granted to them by Prop 106, Gov. Brewer and the Senate removed Chairwoman Colleen Mathis from the commission. Read Gov. Brewer’s statement here and the Legislature report here.What’s next? Mathis has asked the courts to intervene and block her removal. The Commission on Appellate Court Appointments is meeting Monday to discuss the process to recommend candidates to replace Mathis. Time is running short to have the new lines ready for the 2012 elections. The old lines for congressional districts cannot be used because Arizona is gaining one new congressional district due to population growth. Stay tuned – this controversy is far from over and the outcome critical to the future representation of Arizonans like you and me.

A Second Chance to Save a Marriage
No-fault divorce in America has wreaked immeasurable harm on so many families over the last 40 years. Through Covenant Marriage and divorce reform laws, CAP has workedto promote public policy that restores the meaning of marriage, and gives couples considering divorce the opportunity to reconcile.Former Georgia Supreme Court Justice Leah Sears released a bold plan to reduce unnecessary divorces, by giving couples a one-year waiting period before finalizing a divorce. According to Ms. Sears’ research, many divorces are preventable.Research over the past decade has shown that a major share of divorces (50 to 66 percent, depending on the study) occur between couples who had average happiness and low levels of conflict in the years before the divorce.I encourage you to read Ms. Sears’ recent op-ed in the Washington Post about her proposed legislation here.
Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Family, Marriage, Voters Guide Tagged With: , , ,

Man Knows Not His Time

November 1, 2011 By

Man Knows Not His Time
Yesterday I received the sad news that a dear ministry friend, Pastor Leo Godzich, passed away following a car accident while in Uganda to preach. I first met Leo twenty-five years ago when he was ministering to individuals suffering from AIDS. Through the years, Leo and I worked together on Arizona’s laws to establish a covenant marriage license, funding for marriage skills instruction, divorce reform, and Arizona’s state constitutional marriage amendment. Leo and his wife Molly founded and led the National Association for Marriage Enhancement, a ministry dedicated to applying biblical principles to marriage. Leo dedicated his life to standing for God’s design for marriage between one man and one woman first as a pastor but also in the public policy arena. He was always available to testify on legislation or help lead the effort – whatever was needed, Leo was willing to serve and be used of God. Most recently, Leo provided valuable testimony on Arizona’s new CAP-supported lawto change our divorce laws. A longtime Sunday school leader at Phoenix First Assembly, only God knows how many married couples avoided divorce because of Leo’s teaching and ministry. Pray for his dear wife Molly and his three lovely daughters. As we work to strengthen marriage and reform divorce laws, I will miss the wisdom and leadership of this dear friend and co- laborer.
An Unknown Partnership
The American Civil Unions filed a preliminary injunction this week to block key elements of CAP-supported HB 2384from taking effect. The ACLU is trying to block the provision disallows donations to organizations that provide, promote, pay for, or provide referrals for abortion from being eligible for the working poor tax credit.The ACLU filed the case on behalf of the Arizona Domestic Violence Coalition. It may be surprising to many people that the Domestic Violence Coalition has close ties to the abortion industry. It’s outrageous that the coalition would fight so vehemently in order to be able to promote abortion to the vulnerable women that seek their care. Like every bill CAP supports, we are committed to seeing this law defended in court and upheld.
Be Aware: Porn Harms
Pornography is now more readily accessible than at any other time in history. In recent years, pornography has invaded the cell phone, tablet, and video game console market, using every leap in technology as a way to stretch its ugly tentacles into homes.A CAP ally, Arizona Family Council, has helped organize a national Internet campaign for next week’s White Ribbon Against Pornography Week. Live webinars and Internet events will be available daily for families and communities to learn more about the fight against illegal pornography. For more information, check out pornharms.com/beaware or visit their Facebook page.
Filed Under: Family, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , ,

The Turning Point

September 30, 2011 By

The Turning Point 
A new study by the National Conference on Citizenship reports that Arizonans have become more engaged in the political process. Since 2006, voter turnout has surged, raising Arizona’s ranking from 33rd to 18th in the nation. The spike in voter registration is even steeper – boosting our rank from 48th to 27th.Consider what’s happened in our state to understand why this is so significant. In 2006, Arizona became the only state to vote against a state constitutional amendment to protect marriage. This wake-up call was a turning point for values voters. In 2008, Arizonans passed Proposition 102 to define marriage in Arizona’s constitution as only the union of one man and one woman. The victory resulted from a strong campaign to register those who supported one man, one woman marriage and to turn out those voters. The victory also resulted from a strong coalition of Arizonans from differing faiths, ethnicities, and political persuasions coming together around a shared value.But that’s not all. Those same voters elected a pro-life, pro-family legislature in 2008 and again in 2010. In the last three years alone, 38 CAP-supported bills that promote and defend foundational principles have been signed into law, raising the total number of CAP-supported bills that have become law to 101. People are waking up in Arizona to the fact that what happens at the polls and at the state Capitol impacts their family. You can make a difference! As we look ahead to the 2012 elections, the stakes are even higher than before. It’s critical that we all are registered to vote, are informed, and turn out to make sure our voice is heard.
New Lawsuit Attacks School Choice 
The Arizona School Boards Association and Arizona Education Association (the teachers union) have sued to overturn Arizona’s new law establishing empowerment scholarships. The law, advocated for by CAP and our school choice allies, provides parents of children with special needs the opportunity to redirect state funds for the education and educational services that best meet their children’s needs. The facts are parents know what’s best for their children, and the state should empower them to make decisions about their education. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen school board members allow your taxpayer dollars to be used to fight school choice measures. CAP is committed to standing with school choice and parents’ rights advocates to defeat this lawsuit.

Congress Investigating Planned Parenthood 
The U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee will be investigating Planned Parenthood Federation of America for improprieties regarding how Planned Parenthood uses federal dollars. This is a great first step to holding America’s largest abortion franchise accountable. Click here to read the letter Rep. Cliff Stearns sent to Planned Parenthood. Click here to read Americans United for Life’s report on Planned Parenthood.

Maricopa County Community College’s Bad Move  
In a 3-2 decision this week, the Maricopa County Community College Board approved adding “gender-identity” to their non-discrimination policy. In a letter I sent to the Board prior to the vote, I explained why this vague policy should be rejected. You can read my letter here.It’s important to realize that the Maricopa County Community College Board is accountable to the voters. We see again why every election matters, especially when it comes to promoting and defending foundational principles.
Gov. Brewer Fights Back Against Radical Ninth Circuit Court Decision  
Also earlier this week, Governor Brewer filed a petition requesting all of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to review a recent ruling by a three judge panel that would essentially force the state to provide health insurance benefits to domestic partners. Domestic partnerships devalue marriage – the cornerstone of our culture. The legislature and Governor Brewer were acting within their authority when they said that only spouses should receive health benefits from the state, and I applaud Governor Brewer for not allowing this bad decision from the Court to stand.

If You’ve Been Through The Truth Project  
For those of you who have been through The Truth Project, you won’t want to miss two big events featuring some familiar faces from the small group study. First, on October 16, Ravi Zacharias is speaking at the new Grand Canyon University Arena. Click hereto get your tickets.Then on October 29, CAP and Truth in Action Ministries are bringing in Dr. Del Tackett for the Faith in Action Tourto help you discover how to transform your community through service.If you haven’t experienced The Truth Project, these are great opportunities to hear from two of the country’s most inspiring and thought-provoking teachers.
Filed Under: Education, Homosexuality, Marriage, Sanctity of Life, Voter Registration Tagged With: , , ,

“Another Daffy Ninth Circuit Ruling”

September 9, 2011 By 55 Comments

“Another Daffy Ninth Circuit Ruling”
So writes Ed Whelan about this week’s Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decision on an Arizona law regarding domestic partner benefits. The Court upheld a temporary injunction blocking a 2009 bill that limits state employee benefits for dependents to married employees. The law, signed by Governor Brewer, reversed a Napolitano administration order granting employee dependent benefits to unmarried domestic partners.

The majority of Arizonans favor marriage being recognized only as the union of one man and one woman. Arizona public policy as determined by our state elected officials does not recognize sexual orientation or domestic partners as a protected group in our anti-discrimination laws. Yet the Court has sided with homosexual activists and their agenda to make marriage laws meaningless through the granting of legal recognition and benefits to same sex partners. The Court’s opinion is another example of judges making law, not interpreting the law. Determining eligibility of benefits for state employees is a policy matter to be decided by the legislative and executive branches, not by the judicial branch.

This battle is not over. I fully expect the Brewer administration to appeal. Please click here to send Governor Brewer an email thanking her for her support and encouraging her to continue the fight to uphold Arizona’s law limiting state employee dependent benefits to married employees.
Censored by the Court 
I want to share with you a little known story behind this ongoing litigation. With CAP as the named party, the Alliance Defense Fund filed a friend-of-the-court brief in this case explaining why it’s important that benefits only be distributed based on marital status. The Ninth Circuit Court refused to accept our brief, even though they accepted briefs from two homosexual activist organizations.
California Continues to Fight for Marriage
The ongoing legal battle over California’s Proposition 8 marriage amendment had another hearing this week. The legal defense team at Protectmarriage.com argued for their right to intervene in the case on behalf of the 7 million voters who passed Prop 8. Both the California Governor and Attorney General have refused to defend Prop 8. Read the hopeful report from our friends at the California Family Policy Council on the hearing here.

Once again, we see why elections matter, and why it is critical to elect officials that recognize the essential role of the family and marriage in society. It’s unconscionable that duly elected officials are refusing to carry out their duty to defend laws passed by the people.
Faith in Action Tour
In case you missed the news, CAP along with Truth in Action Ministries is hosting a very special event on October 29 with Dr. Del Tackett, creator of The Truth Project. Our goal is to help you discover how God can use you to impact our community, engage you with local organizations to explore specific opportunities to make a difference right where you live, and transform our community by putting God’s Word into action.

You won’t want to miss this rare opportunity to see Del speak live and connect with local ministries. Click here to register – hope to see you there!
Filed Under: Family, Government, Homosexuality, Judicial, Marriage Tagged With: , , , ,

The Case for Marriage

August 5, 2011 By Leave a Comment

The Case for Marriage

Throughout July, we’ve featured a series of posts on the Foundations blog titled, “Why Protect Marriage.” Here’s a recap of the posts:

Dale Schowengerdt went on Tom Brown’s new show on KPXQ, Koinonia, to discuss his post. Listen to it here and be sure to follow our blog for more in this series.

Now is not a time to grow weary or discouraged. Don’t listen to media reports or predictions from others that same sex “marriage” in New York means the debate is over. Now is the time to redouble our prayers and efforts to stand for marriage as the union of one man and one woman.

More Fallout from “Obamacare” 

This week, the Department of Health and Human Services announced the latest from the nationalization of health care – the federal government will force virtually every employer to pay for emergency contraception in their employee healthcare plan. Emergency contraception can work to cause an abortion.

Along with the dangers this poses for the preborn and women, this mandate has severe implications for the rights of conscience of business owners. National Review Online writes about this decision will mean for you and me here, The Misguided Birth-Control Crusade Continues. The Heritage Foundation also provides some good insight in this article, HHS’s New Health Guidelines Trample on Conscience.

It’s That Time Once Again

Early voting has begun in four key Arizona city elections. These elections often are decided by less than 20% of the electorate. Values voters have a unique opportunity to impact city leadership by voting!

CAP’s Voter Guide website, azvoterguide.com, features survey results from Phoenix, Tucson, and Prescott. Be sure to check it out before you vote. If your town isn’t holding elections, you can still make a difference by making sure your friends and family are informed and turn out to vote.

If a candidate hasn’t responded, we’ve provided their email address and phone number so you can contact the candidate directly and ask them to answer the survey. You can also contact them on Facebook and Twitter. We’ve compiled a list of their usernames for your convenience.  Yuma friends – note that no candidate for your city has responded!

The Ongoing Court Battles with Planned Parenthood

CAP continues to closely monitors two cases filed by Planned Parenthood challenging CAP-supported pro-life laws. On the Foundations blog, I posted two resources that explain our ongoing fight to enact key aspects of the Abortion Consent Act and abortion clinic regulations.

Looking for Fall Interns

CAP currently has openings for fall semester interns. Read more about the qualifications and how to apply.

Filed Under: City Government, Elected Officials, Family, Health Care, Marriage, Voters Guide Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Good News! 16 CAP-Supported Bills Become Law

July 20, 2011 By 1 Comment

Today is a great day for everyone who calls Arizona home.

It’s been 90 days since the end of the 2011 legislative session, which means 16 Center for Arizona Policy (CAP)-supported bills take effect today. That’s 101 CAP-supported bills enacted into law since 1995!

These new laws make significant progress towards advancing the foundational values of life, marriage and family, and religious liberty in our state.

Victories like these never come without hard work, the support and prayers of people across Arizona, and the Lord’s blessing. Today would also be impossible if it wasn’t for the amazing 2010 elections, in which a two-thirds majority of pro-life, pro-family leaders were elected to the state House, Senate, and the governor’s office.

I’d like to share with you a very special message from two legislators who stand on the front lines every day at the state Capitol with CAP to promote and defend foundational principles.

YouTube Preview Image

In His Hands,


 

Cathi Herrod
President, Center for Arizona Policy

Filed Under: Legislation, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , , ,

The Tail Wagging the Dog; Same-Sex Couples in Arizona

July 14, 2011 By 18 Comments

Population of Arizona?   6,392,017 souls or approximately 11 people per acre when spread out over the entire state.

Number of husband and wife households in Arizona?    The 2010 U.S. Census counted nearly 1.15 million husband and wife households in Arizona.   Number of same-sex households in Arizona?   The 2010 U.S. Census counted nearly 21,000 same-sex couples in Arizona.

So how does that work out?  About 1.83% of couples identified in Arizona by the U.S. Census Bureau are same-sex.  Think about that.  What does that figure suggest for the overall GLBT population of Arizona?  Even being generous and posting that figure at 3% still only yields less than a single legislative district (there are 30 of those).

So what prompted this article?  The fact that in spite of numbers so statistically small, the Associated Press, FoxNews Phoenix, ABC15, and the Arizona Daily Star actually expended time and space reporting this minor factoid.  And, I’ll bet this isn’t over.  By the end of the news-day today several more of Arizona’s MSM will have carried the same story.  And by the end of the week, they’ll be editorials, commentary (like this one) to fill a book!

Why?  How is a small stadium (about the size of Chase Field) of people among so many more millions a “news story”?  How about how many children have a father living in the same household or how many female veterans are homeless in our state?  Priorities.  What’s important.  That’s what the media reports.  If they are simply keeping score then the numbers aren’t encouraging and perhaps don’t warrant the amount of attention given to GLBT issues in the media.

Are they a viable component of Arizona’s population?  Absolutely.  Do they receive more than their share of attention and political clout disproportionate to their numbers?  Absolutely.  In our state today aren’t there more important issues to address such as the growing influence of Chinese investment in U.S. resources?

And of course, maybe we should be paying attention to that whole Debt-Ceiling issue now raging in Washington.  After all, $0.40 of each dollar spent by the federal government daily is borrowed.  How sustainable is that?

(picture courtesy of the website Global Cocktails)

 The point?

There are more important issues today than tracking same-sex couples, so why does the media expend the energy on this issue?  How much energy and capital is expended on the GLBT community in Arizona and why given what a small segment of the overall population they truly are.

 

 

Filed Under: Culture, Demographics, Family, Homosexuality, Marriage, Uncategorized

When Marriage Comes Under Attack

July 1, 2011 By 13 Comments

When Marriage Comes Under Attack

Late last Friday, New York’s state legislature decided to radically redefine marriage. In a less than transparent process, New York became the sixth state in the nation to call marriage something other than the union of one man and one woman – and only the third to do so by legislative action. There are thirty states, including Arizona, with constitutional amendments protecting marriage.

We are publishing a series of posts on the Foundations blog this week and next about why it’s so important to stand for the true definition of marriage. We’ll look at what the Scripture says about marriage, whether this is really a “civil rights” issue, and the impact on our religious freedom. Check out the first post of the series by CAP’s Communications Director Aaron Baer: “Why Protect Marriage.”

Celebrating Our Independence

While you celebrate our nation’s independence this 4th of July with family and friends, I hope you take time to reflect on the blessing of living in this great country, and the responsibility that comes with it.

That responsibility starts with exercising our freedom and right to vote our values. City elections throughout Arizona are less than two months away on August 30. Be sure you and your friends are registered to vote, and consider talking with your pastor about holding a voter registration drive at your church in the coming weeks. CAP has everything you need to get started registering voters. We’ll also be publishing a city election Voter Guide at azvoterguide.com in the coming days.

City elections can have a profound impact on the entire state. Our opponents specifically target these elections because it’s much easier for them to influence the outcome and then advance their agenda. We cannot afford to be silent in these local elections. If you haven’t already done so, check out this blog post by CAP’s Blackstone intern Angelina Nguyen about how one city’s bad policies can have an impact on everyone in the state.

Summer Break

5 Minutes for Families will be going on a short summer break through the month of July. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and watch the Foundations blog for updates from us during this time. I’ll be back with more updates and news you need to know that impacts your family in August. Happy Independence Day!

Filed Under: Marriage, Voter Registration, Voters Guide Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Stand for Marriage? You’re Not Alone

June 24, 2011 By 26 Comments

Stand for Marriage? You’re Not Alone

Most of the popular culture would have you think that if you believe in the true definition of marriage, you are part of a small minority. A new comprehensive study by the Alliance Defense Fund suggests otherwise. In what is likely the most extensive national research survey of its kind, ADF and Public Opinion Strategists found that 62 percent of Americans believe that “marriage should be defined only as a union between one man and one woman.”

This actually shouldn’t come as a shock. When this issue has been before the voters, 31 states have voted to protect marriage in their state constitution – like Arizona did in 2008. Reality is that we have much to be hopeful about in our battle to preserve the definition of marriage.

Who is the Father?

Father’s Day sparked a slew of stories about dads and their role in the family. Jennifer Lahl wrote this piece about a recent decision by British Columbia’s high court in favor of donor-conceived children having access to their biological information. Rulings like this are critical to advancing the public conversation about In Vitro Fertilization and understanding the rights of all involved – especially the children.

The New York Times told the story of a young boy, conceived through sperm donation, being raised by two women and the sperm donor (who the boy only knows as uncle right now) and the sperm donor’s same-sex partner. The problems with this arrangement are evident, and the long term effects on the child in this story will probably never be told. When the needs of children are second to the wants of adults, there are always consequences, and sadly, it’s typically the children who pay the price.

On the Radio

On Monday, I was on for the full hour of the Andrew Tallman Show on 1360 KPXQ AM to discuss the Abortion Consent Act litigation. I had a great time with Andrew talking about the pro-life movement in Arizona. Click here to listen to the podcast.

City Elections Impact Everyone

On the Foundations blog this week, CAP’s Blackstone legal intern Angelina wrote about the impact one city’s election can have on the entire state. Read more here.

Time is Running Out to Register to Vote

Many city elections are just two months away. If you’re not registered to vote, you’ll want to soon! If you are, please forward this email to your friends and family, and remind them to register and be sure to turn out to vote on August 30. We are in the process of compiling the results for our city election Voter Guide and will be publishing them in the next few weeks to AZVoterGuide.com.

 

Filed Under: Homosexuality, Marriage, Polls, Sanctity of Life, Voter Registration, Voters Guide Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

40 Abortions Per Week

June 17, 2011 By 3 Comments

40 Abortions Per Week

Phoenix Magazine’s current edition portrays a glowing image of Valley abortionist Gabrielle Goodrick, who claims to perform, on average, 40 abortions per week. The article reads like a Planned Parenthood ad: dehumanizing the preborn and completely ignoring the considerable physical and emotional risks women face when they have an abortion.

Shane Wikfors at Sonoran Alliance blog this week wrote about what is also noticeably missing from the article. In February, Goodrick was placed on five years probation by the Arizona Medical Board. The Board said she reported she “may have a substance abuse problem,” and the Board’s Physician Health Program Contractor determined that Ms. Goodrick was “not safe to practice” and recommended “that she attend a chemical dependency evaluation.”

While not surprising, the lack of journalistic integrity is astounding. Once again, when all the facts are included, one cannot paint a sunny picture of Arizona’s abortion industry. I encourage you to pray for Goodrick and those entering her clinic. The facts are that abortion has tragic, life-altering consequences for all involved.

Leading a Family

Dad’s make a difference in our lives. They play a critical role in providing a loving, secure environment for families. A Heritage Foundation brief shows the importance for families of having a dad around:

  • Fathers’ engagement in their children’s activities is linked to higher academic performance.
  • Among adolescent boys, those who receive more parenting from their fathers are less likely to exhibit anti-social and delinquent behavior.
  • Among adolescent girls, those who have a strong relationship with their fathers are less likely to report experiencing depression.

Today, a new group of children, though, may never know their fathers. Jennifer Lahl, the executive producer of Eggsploitation, is producing a new film, Anonymous Father’s Day. The film tells the story of children conceived through sperm donation who will most likely never know their fathers and how this has impacted their lives. Click here to watch the trailer, and visit AnonymousUs.com to hear some of these stories. Also be sure to thank and love on your dad this Father’s Day! Most likely, I’ll be watching the U.S. Open with my dad and my husband.

Eye-Opening

We screened Eggsploitation twice this week – at Arizona Christian University and for a joint House and Senate Health Committee. Eggsploitation tells how the retrieval of human eggs to create embryos through in vitro fertilization carries significant health risks for women, to say nothing of the potential harm to embryos. Most who see the movie – from legislators to college-age women – say the movie is eye-opening. Click here for a copy of CAP’s overview of the issue.

If you missed the screening, and would like to see Eggsploitation, you can purchase the DVD from CAP for $17 plus $3 shipping and handling. Also, if you’re interested in hosting a screening for your church, class, or small group, we can help. Email info@azpolicy.org or call the CAP office, 602.424.2525.

Filed Under: Family, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Dean and Dusti

February 17, 2011 By 9 Comments

Congratulations to my two friends Dean Martin and Dusti Morris for making the news on AZFamily. But an even bigger congratulations on their upcoming wedding!

Filed Under: Family, Human Condition, Marriage
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