If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes by adding a new section (38-202) to the Arizona Revised Statutes, which would prohibit individuals convicted of certain serious offenses from holding public office or public employment starting January 1, 2026. Specifically, it would disqualify individuals convicted of felony offenses involving moral turpitude, serious offenses, violent or aggravated felonies, domestic violence offenses, and various other specified crimes. However, it would allow individuals previously convicted of certain offenses to regain eligibility if they meet specific conditions, such as completing their sentence and obtaining endorsements from political party leaders.

Additionally, the bill would require candidates for public office or public employment to verify their eligibility through a series of steps, including submitting fingerprints for a background check and obtaining confirmation of eligibility from the Secretary of State. It would also establish who is responsible for the costs associated with background checks and clarify that determinations of ineligibility are final and non-appealable, with limited exceptions for overturned convictions or extraordinary circumstances. The act would not retroactively apply to individuals already in public office or employment before the specified date unless they commit a disqualifying offense thereafter.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 38-202