Bill > SB1498

This bill introduces new requirements for federal law enforcement officers conducting arrests, searches, or seizures in Arizona, mandating that they obtain written permission from the county sheriff before taking such actions, with some specific exceptions. Federal employees who are not certified as peace officers in Arizona must now seek permission from the county sheriff, which can be refused for any reason, unless the action occurs on a federal enclave, involves witnessing an immediate crime, is in close pursuit of a suspect, or involves U.S. Customs and Border Protection or Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. If the target is a county sheriff's employee or elected officer, permission must be sought from the Attorney General. The permission request must include detailed information such as the subject's name, probable cause, specific assets to be seized, and the planned date and location of the action. The permission is valid for 48 hours and must be countersigned. The bill also mandates that the county attorney prosecute federal employees who violate these requirements, with potential charges including kidnapping, trespass, theft, or homicide, depending on the circumstances. Failure by the county attorney to prosecute such violations could result in a voter recall and potential prosecution for official misconduct by the Attorney General.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82923