The proposed bill would update the current statutes governing the Military Affairs Commission by restructuring its membership and expanding its responsibilities. Under A.R.S. § 26-261, the Commission's voting members would be replaced with a new composition that includes four members with military experience, seven representatives from community military support organizations, and additional members with expertise in military and defense policy. The bill would also add the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House as members, while removing certain nonvoting advisory members and modifying the advisory membership to include representatives from the Arizona Commanders Summit and the Arizona Commerce Authority. The Commission would be required to meet twice a year instead of once, enhancing its engagement with state leadership on military issues. Additionally, the bill introduces the Military Affairs Commission Fund, which would be administered by the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs (DEMA) and would consist of various funding sources to support the Commission's activities. The Commission would be tasked with proactively recommending actions to enhance military operations and advising the Governor and Legislature on retaining and attracting defense-related businesses. It would also be required to submit detailed reports on military installations and defense-related businesses in Arizona, with its duties regarding the Fund subject to legislative appropriation for oversight and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 26-261, 26-262, 26-264, 28-8461, 35-313, 35-190, 37-803, 41-2752, 28-8481
Senate Engrossed Version: 26-261, 26-262, 26-264, 28-8461, 35-313, 35-190, 37-803, 41-2752, 28-8481