The proposed bill, if enacted, would introduce a new offense termed "aggravated unlawful flight from a pursuing law enforcement vehicle" to the Arizona Revised Statutes. This new statute would define the offense as occurring when a driver willfully operates a vehicle in a manner that recklessly endangers another person's life while attempting to evade law enforcement. The bill classifies this offense as a class 4 felony, escalating to a class 2 felony under specific circumstances, such as causing serious physical injury, transporting a minor under 15 years old, or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the offense.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals convicted of aggravated unlawful flight while under the influence would not be eligible for probation or early release until they have served a minimum of four months in prison. This amendment aims to enhance penalties for dangerous driving behaviors that endanger public safety during police pursuits, thereby updating current traffic laws to address more severe violations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 28-622.02