The proposed bill would update current statutes by establishing the Arizona Border Coordination Office within the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs (DEMA) to enhance collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies on border security and humanitarian issues. It would insert provisions detailing the Office's responsibilities, such as coordinating with federal agencies, developing training programs, managing resources for border operations, and applying for federal grants. Additionally, it mandates the appointment of a qualified director and requires annual reporting on the Office's progress and financial activities.

The bill would also appropriate $50,000,000 from the state General Fund for FY 2026 to support the Office, prioritizing local law enforcement training, emergency response operations, and humanitarian assistance. It explicitly prohibits the use of these funds for immigration enforcement activities, which are reserved for federal authorities, ensuring that all operations comply with federal laws and constitutional protections. The current law remains unchanged, while the new provisions aim to enhance the effectiveness of border security initiatives without infringing on federal enforcement authority.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 26-102, 26-108, 26-153, 41-1825, 26-152, 26-181