Criminal Justice (Firearms)

SB 1600 makes it a crime for adults to negligently leave firearms accessible to minors under 17, specifically when the firearm is "readily dischargeable" (loaded or ready to fire). It requires reasonable storage measures like locked containers or trigger locks, and violations are classified as a class 6 felony (class 4 if injury or death occurs). The bill directly affects parents, guardians, or family members responsible for firearm storage, with specific exceptions for supervised use (e.g., hunting, self-defense). Key provisions include a 7-day arrest delay for family members if injury/death results and clear definitions of "minor" and "family member."

HB 2864 amends Arizona law to define "misconduct involving weapons," adding 17 specific prohibited actions. Key provisions include banning concealed carry of deadly weapons near schools, polling places, or in vehicles during serious crimes, and prohibiting instigating others to commit such offenses (newly added in subsection A.17). The law directly affects individuals carrying weapons in restricted locations or circumstances, such as failing to disclose weapons to police or supplying firearms to those likely to commit felonies. Exceptions cover law enforcement, military personnel, licensed museums, and specific educational activities, but the bill focuses on expanding prohibited conduct rather than altering penalties.

HB 2865, titled "Jordin's Law," clarifies Arizona's definition of a "prohibited possessor" under firearm laws by amending Section 13-3101 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. It specifies who is barred from possessing firearms, including individuals convicted of felonies (with rights not restored), undocumented immigrants (with exceptions for hunters, shooting event participants, or diplomats), people subject to certain court orders (like mental health holds or domestic violence protection orders), and those serving prison terms or probation for violent offenses. The bill also defines "prohibited weapons," such as short-barreled rifles or machine guns, but states these definitions do not override federal law compliance. This is a definitional update to existing law, not a new restriction on firearm access.

HB 2131 amends Arizona's weapons misconduct law (ARS § 13-3102) to specifically criminalize trafficking weapons or explosives for financial gain to assist criminal street gangs, syndicates, or racketeering enterprises. This provision directly affects individuals who sell or transfer weapons/explosives with the intent to support such criminal organizations. The bill adds this trafficking offense as a new subsection (A.16) to the existing statute, which already covers other weapon-related misconduct like concealed carry or possession by prohibited persons. Key exemptions remain for lawful activities like museum collections, military use, or educational purposes. The law creates a distinct criminal penalty for trafficking tied to organized criminal enterprises, not general weapon possession or sales.

HB 2020 defines and penalizes interference with or disruption of public educational institutions in Arizona. It requires public schools, colleges, and universities to adopt rules for maintaining order on their property, with penalties including ejection, suspension, or expulsion for students and staff who violate these rules. The law classifies threatening harm as a class 1 misdemeanor for minors or a class 6 felony for adults (18+), while entering school property to disrupt operations is a class 1 misdemeanor. Private educational institutions are exempt from these requirements, and the bill explicitly preserves approved gun safety programs on campuses.