This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section to Title 38, Chapter 3, Article 4 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, which would establish strict guidelines for hiring practices within the state and its political subdivisions. Specifically, it would prohibit any policies or practices that require hiring based on anything other than the merit of the individual. Additionally, it would restrict the manipulation or influence of employee composition based on race, ethnicity, sex, or national origin, except to ensure compliance with state and federal antidiscrimination laws.

Furthermore, the bill allows the Attorney General, county attorneys, or any individual to seek declaratory or injunctive relief, as well as damages for violations of this new section. It also stipulates that prevailing parties in such actions are entitled to recover costs and reasonable attorney fees. Importantly, the bill clarifies that the merit-based hiring requirement does not conflict with existing state or federal laws prohibiting discrimination and defines "merit" in terms of qualifications, skills, and other objective criteria relevant to job performance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 38-452