This bill proposes several updates to current statutes regarding the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Attorney General's authority. Specifically, it introduces new language that appropriates $4,750,000 from the Arizona Highway Patrol Fund to DPS for operating expenses in fiscal year 2025-2026, which is exempt from lapsing provisions. Additionally, the bill exempts DPS from the existing statutory prohibition against state agencies employing legal counsel or incurring expenses for legal services until December 31, 2026.

The bill also amends the current language concerning the Attorney General's responsibilities, replacing gender-specific pronouns with the title "the attorney general" for clarity and inclusivity. Furthermore, it adds DPS to the list of entities exempt from the prohibition against employing legal counsel. The overall effect of these changes is to enhance the operational capabilities of DPS while ensuring that the Attorney General's role is clearly defined and inclusive.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 38-615
House Engrossed Version: 38-615
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-192