The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes regarding the responsibilities of the Adjutant General of Arizona. Specifically, it would remove the requirement and instead allow the Adjutant General to establish an educational program known as "Project Challenge" for individuals who have dropped out of high school and are under twenty years old, provided they are not adjudicated delinquents. The program would be conducted in a paramilitary environment by the National Guard and aims to equip participants with the skills necessary to become productive citizens and obtain a general equivalency diploma. Additionally, the Adjutant General would be permitted to accept and spend funds from various sources to support this program. Furthermore, the bill would authorize the Adjutant General, with the Governor's approval, to enter into contracts or agreements with individuals or political subdivisions for various purposes, including training, emergency operations, and aircraft maintenance. The requirements for establishing Project Challenge would be subject to legislative appropriations, and the Adjutant General would be responsible for reporting annually on the program's activities. Overall, the bill aims to provide more flexibility in the Adjutant General's duties while ensuring the continuation of educational support for at-risk youth.

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