This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section to Title 13, Chapter 38, Article 7 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically Section 13-3904, which addresses the processing of arrestees with respect to their veteran status. Under the new provisions, during a person's initial appearance hearing, the court is required to inquire about their status as a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces. If the court confirms that the individual is a veteran, it must notify the prosecuting agency of this status.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that, upon notification of a person's veteran status, the prosecuting agency must provide information about services offered by the Department of Veterans' Services, unless the individual is charged with certain serious offenses. The prosecuting agency is also directed to consider referring the veteran to a Veterans Court or another appropriate treatment court or diversion program. Additionally, if there is uncertainty regarding a person's veteran status, the prosecuting agency must allow the individual or their attorney to present official documentation to verify their status.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-3904