HB2506 is a bill that requires individuals acting as agents for foreign principals from specified countries of concern to register with the Arizona Attorney General's office. The bill details the information required for registration, including personal and principal details, nature of business, and financial transactions. It also sets forth updating, posting, and legislative testimony requirements, while exempting certain diplomatic roles. The bill restricts agents' activities, prohibits contingency-based political contracts, and introduces penalties for non-compliance, including felony charges. State employees must annually affirm non-agent status, and higher education institutions must expel violators who harass students from countries of concern.
The bill defines "agent of a foreign principal," "country of concern," and "foreign principal," and lists countries of concern such as China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela. It appropriates $100,000 and one full-time employee position to the AG's office for the fiscal year 2024-2025 to enforce the new regulations. The bill aims to increase transparency and accountability for foreign influence within the state of Arizona.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 41-197
House Engrossed Version: 41-197