If enacted, this bill would establish the Ballistic Shield Fund under the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) and appropriate $2,000,000 from the state General Fund for fiscal year 2026 to support this initiative. The fund would be continuously appropriated and exempt from lapsing provisions, allowing for ongoing financial support for law enforcement agencies to purchase ballistic shields designed to protect against high-powered firearms. Additionally, law enforcement agencies receiving funds would be required to provide a one-half match of the distributed monies.

The bill also defines "law enforcement agencies" to include county sheriffs' departments and municipal police departments, as well as any agencies employing certified peace officers in Arizona. This expansion aims to ensure that a broad range of law enforcement entities can access the funding necessary to enhance their protective capabilities. Overall, the bill seeks to bolster public safety by equipping law enforcement with essential protective gear.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1735