Profile: State of Arizona Department of Economic Security

History

The Department of Economic Security (DES) was established by the State Legislature in July 1972 by combining the Employment Security Commission, the State Department of Public Welfare, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the State Office of Economic Opportunity, the Apprenticeship Council and the State Office of Manpower Planning. The State Department of Mental Retardation joined the Department in 1974. The purpose in creating the Department was to provide an integration of direct services to people in such a way as to reduce duplication of administrative efforts, services and expenditures.

Mission

The Arizona Department of Economic Security promotes the safety, well-being, and self sufficiency of children, adults, and families.

Vision

Every child, adult, and family in the state of Arizona will be safe and economically secure.