SB1231 is a bill that aims to make illegal border crossing into Arizona a state crime, with penalties varying based on the violation's circumstances. It defines illegal entry, provides affirmative defenses for certain individuals, and outlines procedures for issuing return orders to a foreign nation. The bill also grants civil immunity and indemnification to state and local officials enforcing these laws, except in cases of bad faith or recklessness. However, the Governor vetoed the bill due to concerns about its impact on communities and businesses, as well as constitutional issues.

The bill amends Arizona Revised Statutes by adding and modifying sections related to illegal border crossings. It specifies terms, establishes penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, and prohibits enforcement actions at sensitive locations like schools, places of worship, and healthcare facilities. The bill is considered an emergency measure, which would make it effective immediately if passed. Despite the veto, the bill had progressed through the Senate and House, and the legislative process is documented in the accompanying fact sheet.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 12-827, 12-828, 12-829, 12-830, 13-603, 31-402, 31-403, 41-1750, 13-4295.05, 13-717, 13-4295.01, 13-4295.02, 13-4295.03, 13-4295.04, 36-437, 12-2291, 13-3897, 13-3898, 13-4295.06, 31-411, 13-1104, 13-1105, 13-704, 13-705, 13-105, 31-401
Senate Engrossed Version: 12-827, 12-828, 12-829, 12-830, 13-603, 31-402, 31-403, 41-1750, 13-4295.05, 13-717, 13-4295.01, 13-4295.02, 13-4295.03, 13-4295.04, 36-437, 12-2291, 13-3897, 13-3898, 13-4295.06, 31-411, 13-1104, 13-1105, 13-704, 13-705, 13-105, 31-401