According to InMaricopa, the Greater Maricopa Business Alliance is urging voters to support Proposition 416 and reject Proposition 320, saying both measures could affect Maricopa’s schools, workforce development and local economy.
The group says Proposition 416 would continue Maricopa Unified School District’s existing maintenance and operations override. It is not a new tax, but a renewal of funding first approved by voters in 2016 and renewed in 2021. For the 2026-27 school year, the override would provide about $7.8 million in the district’s operating budget.
Without voter approval, that money would begin phasing out in the 2027-28 school year, dropping by about $2.7 million each year until it is gone. GMBA says the loss could affect district staffing and student programs, including RAM Academy, which helps students recover credits and work toward graduation.
The alliance also opposes Proposition 320, which would require some school districts to eventually spend at least 60% of operational funds on direct instruction. GMBA says it supports accountability and responsible spending, but worries a statewide formula could reduce local flexibility and limit programs that help prepare students for careers.
GMBA says local school leaders should keep the ability to set priorities based on student needs, community input and available funding, especially when it comes to career and technical education and other workforce-readiness efforts.
