The bill, S.B. 1338, known as the "Pacific Conflict Stress Test Act," aims to enhance Arizona's preparedness for potential conflicts in the Pacific region by establishing the Bipartisan Select Committee on Pacific Conflict. This committee will identify critical infrastructure and assets at risk, conduct audits, and provide annual reports with risk assessments and recommendations. The bill also requires the Arizona Commerce Authority and the State Treasurer to audit critical procurements and state investments for vulnerabilities and to recommend divestment strategies. The bill includes confidentiality measures for reports and exempts some committee activities from public meeting laws. The committee and audit provisions will be repealed in 2027 and 2029, respectively, with the bill taking effect on January 1, 2025.

The new legislation mandates the production of a state risk assessment to be published before the governor's annual address, detailing substantial risks to security and public health, and analyzing the likelihood and impact of each risk scenario. The committee, composed of members from various state departments and appointed by the Governor, will also apply for preparedness grants. The act is set to be repealed on December 31, 2028, and will become effective on December 31, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-101
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-101