FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Prop 413 is a ballot measure that asks voters to extend an existing 1/5 of one cent sales tax for 20 years to fund essential public safety and justice system services in Maricopa County.

No.

This tax already exists and has been approved by voters twice, in 1998 and 2002, each time with nearly 70% support. Prop 413 simply continues the tax at the same rate before it expires in March 2027.

No increase to the tax rate.

Prop 413 does not raise the sales tax—it maintains the current rate so critical public safety funding does not disappear.

If the tax expires, Maricopa County faces a major funding shortfall for legally required services.

Independent analysis shows the alternatives would be:

• Large property tax increases

• Cuts to essential public safety services

• Or both

Even raising property taxes to the maximum allowed by law would not fully cover the costs of mandated services.

Prop 413 funds public safety services that the County is required by law to provide, including:

• Construction and renovation of adult and juvenile jail facilities

• Operation and maintenance of jails, including correctional health care

• Probation and recidivism-reduction programs that lower long-term costs

An independent review found 99% of these expenses are legally mandated and cannot be eliminated.

• The tax is estimated to generate $288 million in Fiscal Year 2026

• The first full year after renewal is expected to generate approximately $313 million

This funding is essential to sustaining core public safety services countywide.

Sales taxes:

• Are more broadly shared, including by visitors

• Avoid placing the full burden on homeowners

• Are considered more equitable and sustainable for long-term funding

Independent economists concluded a property-tax-only approach would be insufficient and harmful.

Public safety is not just a safety issue—it’s an economic issue.

A reliable justice system:

• Helps businesses attract workers and investment

• Supports job growth and community stability

• Protects quality of life for families

When public safety systems falter, economic opportunity suffers.

In 2024, a citizen-led Public Safety Funding Committee was formed, including leaders from:

• Law enforcement

• Healthcare

• Business

• Municipal government

• Nonprofits

After nearly a year of meetings, analysis, and public outreach, the

Maricopa County cannot levy or collect a sales tax without explicit authorization from the

Arizona Legislature and approval by voters. Prop 413 ensures transparency and local voter control.

If approved, Prop 413 would extend the existing tax for 20 years, providing long-term stability

for public safety funding and allowing responsible planning.

Prop 413:

• Continues an existing, voter-approved tax

• Protects essential public safety services

• Prevents costly property tax increases

• Supports economic stability and quality of life