SB 1088 appropriates $2.5 million from Arizona’s state general fund for the Arizona Department of Homeland Security’s cybersecurity programs during fiscal year 2026-2027. Specifically, $500,000 is allocated for generative artificial intelligence cybersecurity programs, and $2 million is designated to modernize the statewide VPN security network using a zero trust network access solution. This funding directly supports the state’s cybersecurity infrastructure and operations under the Department of Homeland Security. The bill does not create new policy but provides targeted financial resources for specific technical upgrades and emerging technology applications.
HB 2809 requires Arizona state agencies to implement a statewide cybersecurity system using post-quantum encryption - which protects against future quantum computing threats - for all agencies handling sensitive data like personal information, election systems, public safety records, and infrastructure data. The bill mandates that the system must meet or exceed U.S. Department of Defense’s CMMC 2.0 standards, with all vendors required to be U.S.-based, have no foreign dependencies, and avoid foreign-owned technology. The Auditor General will independently manage encryption keys, conduct regular audits, and report noncompliance to the Governor and Legislature, with agencies facing corrective plans or IT budget restrictions for failing to adhere to requirements.
SB 1037 establishes new security requirements for voting equipment used in Arizona elections. It prohibits voting machines from having internet connectivity or remote access capabilities, mandates configuration to U.S. Department of Homeland Security cybersecurity standards, requires user tracking with unique credentials, and demands logging of all ballot changes while retaining election data for 22 months. The bill directly affects counties, cities, and voting machine vendors that operate or supply electronic voting systems for federal, state, or local elections. These provisions apply to all certified voting equipment used in Arizona’s election processes.
