The proposed bill would amend several sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes related to the qualifications and responsibilities of the Adjutant General (TAG) and Assistant TAGs. Under the new law, the qualifications for TAG would be updated to allow for appointment of a current resident of Arizona or a general officer with specific service requirements, rather than strictly requiring two years of service in the National Guard. Additionally, the bill stipulates that TAG must attain federal recognition as a brigadier general only if not already a general officer, and it introduces new requirements for providing evidence of good standing with military service standards prior to appointment. The bill also terminates the appointment of TAG if the individual fails to meet these standards within the prescribed timeframe.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the responsibilities of TAG by allowing, rather than requiring, the establishment of an educational program known as "Project Challenge." It also expands the qualifications for Assistant TAGs to include being assigned in the Arizona National Guard and receiving federal recognition within 24 months of appointment. The bill allows TAG to enter into contracts for various operational needs, including training and emergency services, and subjects the educational program to legislative appropriations. Overall, these changes aim to modernize the qualifications and operational flexibility of the TAG and Assistant TAG positions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 26-102, 26-181, 26-153, 41-1825, 26-152
Senate Engrossed Version: 26-102, 26-181, 26-153, 41-1825, 26-152
House Engrossed Version: 26-101, 26-102, 26-104, 26-181, 38-211, 38-611, 26-153, 41-1825, 26-152
Chaptered Version: 26-101, 26-102, 26-104, 26-181, 38-211, 38-611, 26-153, 41-1825, 26-152