policies in the bioscience industry and have
been at the forefront to create a substantial
amount of high-paying and good quality jobs.
TC: Can you tell us about some of the
public policy in which you have influenced
change?
Kaites: I helped to create public policy for
a robust tax relief in education policy and
higher education policies for working adults
who want to return to school. These systems
eventually make business more efficient.
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032
Lasting Impression
Technology is the latest field for John Kaites to impact
WRI TING BY :: CHRISTOPHER DI VIRGILIO
I believe that
the continued
promotion of
renewable energy
is an important
ingredient to our
future.
ssistant attorney general
for the state of Arizona.
Chairman of the state Senate
judiciary and banking &
insurance committees. Author
of the Interstate Banking and Branching Act.
This resume is not what you might consider
to be technology driven, but for John Kaites,
it’s every bit a journey with technology.
For more than 11 years Kaites has
represented the Arizona Technology
Council’s interests as its lobbyist at the
Capitol. As a public policy attorney, he has
played a key role in helping shape the state’s
future in technology. Tech Connect caught
up with Kaites during one of his typically
busy days.
TC: What are some of the issues that are
high on your list concerning technology
and energy in Arizona?
Kaites: I believe that the continued
promotion of renewable energy is an
important ingredient to our future.
There are hundreds of kilowatts of energy
produced here and as technology continues
to improve, the price of producing that
energy will fall. I am proud of Arizona for
the cutting-edge technology that is being
designed and produced here in our state.
a
accounting practices and then pushing to
bring more awareness to saving Science
Foundation of Arizona.
TC: Are you happy with the progress the
state has made within the past 10 years
and do you see it as a role model for others
to follow?
Kaites: There has been an amazing evolution
in the past five years. Arizona is a leader
in many ways for renewable energy and
because of our geographic location has
a unique opportunity to take advantage
of the solar technology. We have a host of
homegrown technology and energy-based
companies and are always attracting out-of-state companies to relocate to Arizona.
We have a great policy and partner with the
Science Foundation of Arizona.
TC: I know you stepped out of session to
meet today. Can you share any details
about your testimony?
Kaites: I am proposing a bill to create more
efficiency within the Maricopa County
TC: How was it in the early days of working
with the Council?
Kaites: I’m proud to represent an
organization that worked so diligently with
the 500-plus technology companies in our
state. We have had many successes with
TC: Speaking of progress, what are your
thoughts on the Valley’s light rail system?
Kaites: Urban planning through density is
always a challenge. It’s a step in the right
direction and will hopefully become a more
viable source of transportation for our future.
