Posted Jun 2023
According to News 12
Arizona lawmakers are actively pursuing amendments to the criminal justice system. They have tabled an array of bills, addressing areas as diverse as panhandling, gun rights, police interference, clergy reporting obligations, and compensation for sexual assault victims. While the path from bill introduction to the governor’s desk can be fraught with legislative hurdles, several proposed pieces of legislation have drawn significant attention. This report takes a closer look at five such bills that are currently under consideration in the Arizona legislature, examining their key provisions and potential impact on Arizona’s citizens and institutions.
- Panhandling Prohibition: Senate Bill 1022, introduced by State Sen. John Kavanagh, proposes a statewide ban on panhandling on traffic medians, mirroring an ordinance enacted in Glendale last year. Violation could result in a Class 1 misdemeanor after three instances.
- Gun Rights for Juvenile Offenders: House Bill 2399 aims to change the timeline for restoring gun rights to juvenile offenders. Felons convicted of a dangerous crime as minors could petition to restore their rights at the age of 25 instead of 30. Juvenile non-dangerous felons must wait until their discharge from correctional facilities, completion of probation, and all court-ordered conditions before filing a petition. This bill is backed by four Democrats and eight Republicans.
- Police Interference: Senate Bill 1047, also sponsored by State Sen. John Kavanagh, intends to restrict citizens’ interaction with officers, prohibiting individuals from getting within 20 feet of a “dangerous incident” if warned to stay away by an officer. Violation could lead to a Class 2 misdemeanor. The bill allows peaceful observation of incidents as long as it does not interfere with the police.
- Clergy Reporting Obligation: House Bill 2454 would modify laws around clergymen’s reporting obligations. Currently, clergy members don’t need to report confessions of abuse unless they deem it “reasonable and necessary within the concepts of the religion.” The bill would mandate clergy to report if they believe the confessing individual continues to abuse or intends to abuse someone. This bill is sponsored by five Democrats.
- Compensation for Sex Assault Victims: House Bill 2500, sponsored by Republican Matt Gress, proposes amending the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission’s fund to compensate women who become pregnant as a result of sexual assault. This would cover health care and economic expenses during pregnancy and up to 12 months post-childbirth.
