State economic research functions consolidating under Commerce Department

Two of the state's key economic research functions are being consolidated into a new Research Administration under the Arizona Department of Commerce, Gov. Janet Napolitano announced Friday.

The move, which consolidates Arizona Department of Economic Security and Commerce Department research functions, is part of the governor's mandate to modernize state government, improve the quality of services provided to the public, and enable the two agencies to focus on their core missions: DES on social services, and Commerce on economic development.

The Research Administration is expected to provide more efficient and accurate economic analysis and forecasting to Arizona communities, businesses, planners, lawmakers, economists and others.

"This project will bring together the two critical pieces of economic data and information in one shop, capturing synergies, improving stakeholder relations, enhancing access to critical data needed by communities and businesses, and resulting in better aligning the missions of both agencies," Napolitano said.

The combined Research Administration will be responsible for conducting labor and population research, and producing statistical information that will continue to be used statewide to generate economic forecasts.

"These professionals provide an excellent resource to economic forecasters across Arizona," said Jan Lesher, director of the Arizona Department of Commerce. "This consolidation will enable improved information sharing, and increase the quality of research data that the state produces."

Unemployment statistics compiled and released monthly by DES will continue to be put together by the same staff. The numbers will come from ADOC beginning in January.

For more: www.azgovernor.gov .