During the last regular session and the most recent special session, measures that I see as little more than Band-Aids were applied to three health programs in the state.

Arizona faces many challenges ahead. None is more important or more pressing than passing a new state budget.

We're helping those children who cannot help themselves and giving a push to those who can. We've done it by working together for a common purpose. I see no reason to stop now.

While I have some regrets that this is my last opportunity to deliver a State of the State address, I appreciate and am humbled by the opportunities this great state has given me.

It is time to maximize and prioritize our health care dollars.

Despite Arizona's remarkable growth in recent years, we have met the current federal health standards for ozone pollution and the Environmental Protection Agency recently approved our dust control plan.