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First Things First First Things First

Advocate for Early Childhood

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Support children today. Strengthen Arizona’s tomorrow.

During the first five years of life, a child’s brain grows faster than at any other time. The quality of a child’s earliest experiences shapes everything that follows—their success in school, their health and their future contributions to Arizona’s communities and economy.

First Things First was created by Arizona voters in 2006 to invest in this critical stage of life. But our funding is at risk. First Things First is funded primarily through tobacco taxes, revenues have declined by nearly 40% since our inception. Without sustainable funding, Arizona’s youngest children and our future workforce stand to lose.


How can you take action

Arizona has the opportunity to protect and strengthen early childhood investments through updated revenue sources such as vapor and nicotine products. Ensuring stable funding will allow First Things First to continue supporting families, providers, and communities across the state.

Vapor and nicotine products currently don’t contribute a single dollar to the early childhood system. Closing this tax loophole could generate an estimated $80 million per year.

Down the brief


Policy in action

Our Government Affairs team works with leaders, advocates and policymakers to highlight the return on investment from early childhood. From site tours to legislative briefings, we elevate how early childhood programs strengthen families, communities and Arizona’s economy.

Stay informed by signing up for our monthly Legislative Newsletter. You’ll get updates on priorities, opportunities to take action, and progress from the Capitol.

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Our policy priorities

Decades of research confirm that investments in early childhood deliver lasting benefits. The First Things First Board has identified six key policy priorities to to guide Arizona’s efforts:

  • Strengthening families
  • Expanding access to quality early learning
  • Promoting early health and development
  • Building a sustainable early childhood workforce
  • Enhancing system coordination and leadership
  • Supporting research and accountability

Together, we shape Arizona’s future

Sustaining First Things First funding means stronger families, a more reliable workforce, and a more competitive Arizona economy. Your support today helps ensure every child in our state has the strong start they deserve.

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