Bill > HB2147

This bill establishes new restrictions on public office and employment eligibility in Arizona, effective January 1, 2026, by creating disqualification criteria based on certain criminal convictions. Specifically, individuals are ineligible to hold public office or employment if they have been convicted of felonies involving moral turpitude while in a position of public trust, serious or violent felonies, domestic violence offenses, or a range of specific criminal offenses detailed in the bill. The legislation requires candidates and job applicants to submit fingerprints for a comprehensive background check, obtain confirmation of eligibility from the secretary of state, and bear the associated costs. For certain offenses like those involving specific statutes (13-2921, 13-2921.01, or 13-3019), individuals may still be eligible if they have completed their sentence, are not on probation, and obtain letters of endorsement from political party leaders and a congressional representative. The bill provides limited appeal options for disqualification, allowing reviews if a conviction is overturned or in extraordinary circumstances, with the final determination made by a hearing officer. The law does not retroactively apply to those already in office before January 1, 2026, unless they commit a disqualifying offense after that date.

Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/81843