Bill > HB2020

This bill amends existing Arizona law regarding interference with or disruption of educational institutions, clarifying what constitutes such interference and adjusting penalties. It specifies that threatening physical injury or damage to an educational institution, its property, or individuals on its property, as well as intentionally entering or remaining on educational property to disrupt lawful use, are prohibited acts. The bill also clarifies that the governing board of an educational institution must adopt rules for maintaining public order on its property, and these rules must include penalties for violations, such as ejection or disciplinary action for students and staff. Importantly, the bill reclassifies interference with or disruption of an educational institution as a class 1 misdemeanor, but elevates it to a class 6 felony if the person is 18 years or older, while other forms of interference remain class 1 misdemeanors. It also defines "interference with or disruption of" to include acts that could reasonably lead to the evacuation, closure, rescheduling, cancellation, or suspension of school activities, but excludes normal student investigation and disciplinary procedures. The bill also includes provisions about the forfeiture of weapons used in violations and clarifies that it does not apply to private educational institutions.

Education, Government Affairs, Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83553