The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current Arizona statutes by introducing new sentencing enhancements for individuals convicted of specific crimes, such as stalking or assault, when those individuals are acting as agents of foreign governments or terrorist organizations. Specifically, it would require that such individuals be sentenced to the next higher class of offense if they intentionally act at the direction of or on behalf of these entities during the commission of their crimes. Additionally, the bill would classify engaging in law enforcement activities without the knowledge of appropriate authorities as a class 2 felony when done under the direction of a foreign government or terrorist organization.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the establishment of a Transnational Repression Recognition and Response Training Program by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). This program would provide specialized training for law enforcement officers on identifying tactics of transnational repression, understanding the governments involved, and best practices for prevention and response. The training curriculum would be developed in collaboration with an experienced organization and updated annually to address emerging threats. The program is explicitly prohibited from including any training that promotes targeting individuals based on political or religious beliefs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-721, 41-1735
House Engrossed Version: 13-721, 41-1735
Chaptered Version: 13-721, 41-1735