The Common Sense Institute in Colorado, a prominent policy think tank, announced Monday that it is expanding its operations to Arizona.
Kristin Strahm, the group’s President & Chief Executive Officer, stated that CSI Arizona, which launched Tuesday, will examine fiscal effects of proposed laws, initiatives, and provide well-researched information the public can use in deciding policy.
And just like its. Colorado operationCSI Arizona will remain neutral on policy questions.
Strohm stated that CSI is unique in its approach not to engage in electoraleering or lobby against a proposed legislative measure. This is especially important at a moment when legislatures are often afflicted with partisan rancor.
Strohm stated, noting CSI’s research into a wide range public policy matters, including education and the budget.
She stated that CSI Colorado wants to share this approach and expertise with Arizona.
CSI’s nonpartisan position does not mean that it isn’t worth anything. The group’s work is guided primarily by principles such as economic vitality and free market.
Daniel Scarpinato, an ex-chief of staff to Gov. Doug Ducey, who is advising CSI Arizona said that CSI’s neutral and bipartisan approach to policy gives it a lot. He said that Arizona doesn’t have “anything even close to what CSI provides.”
Scarpinato stated, “I believe that CSI will prove to be a great resource for legislators from both sides of the aisle.”
CSI Arizona’s board members include Lisa Graham Keegan, former Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction and Jim Kolbe. Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry President and CEO Danny Seiden. Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association President & CEOKim Sbow.
T. Scott Martin, a Rivercrest Capital Management managing partner, and Daniel Quigley, an lawyer, are also members of the board.