This bill proposes significant updates to the eligibility criteria for holding public office or public employment in Arizona. Under the new provisions, individuals convicted of serious offenses, including specific felonies and domestic violence offenses, would be prohibited from holding such positions. However, exceptions are made for individuals convicted of certain crimes who meet specific conditions, such as completing their sentence and obtaining endorsements from political party leaders. Additionally, the bill mandates that candidates for public office or employment must undergo background checks, including fingerprinting and submission of results to law enforcement.

The bill also establishes that determinations of ineligibility are final and non-appealable, with limited exceptions for cases where a conviction is overturned or in extraordinary circumstances. Furthermore, it clarifies who is responsible for the costs associated with background checks, specifying that candidates bear the costs for elected positions while employers cover the costs for public employment. Importantly, the act will not retroactively affect individuals already in public office or employment before January 1, 2026, unless they commit a disqualifying offense after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 38-202