Rep. Michael Way

Maddy summaryHB 2611 expands Arizona's definition of aggravated assault by adding 12 new circumstances that elevate assault to aggravated assault. It specifically targets attacks against certain public safety and service workers, including first responders, teachers on school grounds, healthcare workers, prosecutors, park rangers, and public transit employees, when the assault occurs during their official duties. The bill also includes provisions for assaults involving taking weapons from first responders and for assaults committed by individuals in custody against officials. This law directly affects anyone committing assault against these protected groups, increasing potential penalties for such offenses. The changes apply until January 1, 2033.

Maddy summaryHB 2880 prohibits unauthorized encampments on Arizona university and community college campuses, requiring immediate dismantling if established without prior authorization. It mandates that campus officials direct occupants to leave, warn of criminal trespass charges (pursuant to Arizona law), and pursue legal action for removal if refused. Students who refuse to vacate face disciplinary action under their institution's code of conduct, while individuals establishing encampments are liable for all property damage costs and may face criminal prosecution for property damage. The law directly affects students, campus administrators, and anyone attempting to establish protest or temporary housing on campus grounds without approval.

Maddy summaryHCR 2049 is a symbolic resolution passed by Arizona's legislature, not a binding law. It asserts Arizona's sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment by declaring the state will not use state personnel or funds to enforce federal laws or programs deemed unconstitutional by Arizona. The resolution demands the federal government cease "commandeering" state actions and prohibits Arizona from complying with federal mandates that courts have ruled unconstitutionally coercive. It serves as a formal statement sent to federal officials, emphasizing Arizona's position but having no legal effect on federal law or enforcement.

Maddy summaryHB 2099 requires Arizona cities, towns, and counties to enforce, administer, and cooperate with federal immigration enforcement actions. It also adds a similar duty for the governor to work with federal immigration authorities. The law would expire on January 19, 2029, and does not create new immigration enforcement powers but mandates state/local coordination with federal programs. The bill was passed by the legislature in April 2025 but vetoed by the governor on May 2, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 2388 protects the anonymity of individuals who submit anonymous tips to Arizona's silent witness, crime stopper, or game thief programs. It prohibits public disclosure of tip records that could identify anonymous submitters, except when a prosecutor has a constitutional, legal, or ethical duty to disclose. Courts may order disclosure only after a motion showing "good cause" (e.g., bias in the tip or necessity for a defense), and programs must retain tip records for at least one year after a criminal case concludes or appeals end. This law directly affects anonymous crime tip submitters, law enforcement programs, and prosecutors handling criminal cases.

Maddy summaryHB 2340 amends Arizona's first-degree murder statute to specifically classify killing a law enforcement officer "in the line of duty" during the commission of certain serious felonies as first-degree murder. This directly affects law enforcement officers and individuals who commit violent crimes like robbery, kidnapping, or drug offenses involving minors while causing officer deaths. The key provision (subsection A, paragraph 3) adds this scenario to existing first-degree murder classifications, mandating punishment of death or natural life imprisonment for offenders aged 18 or older. The bill does not change the definition of "law enforcement officer" but specifies this penalty applies when an officer dies during the commission of the enumerated crimes.

Maddy summarySB 1282 creates a new offense called "aggravated unlawful flight" for drivers who recklessly endanger others while fleeing police. It classifies this as a class 4 felony generally, but elevates it to a class 2 felony if the driver causes serious injury, transports a minor under 15, or was already violating specific traffic laws (like driving under suspension). Convicted individuals in the class 2 felony scenario must serve at least four months in prison before becoming eligible for probation or early release. The bill directly affects drivers who flee law enforcement in a reckless manner, with stricter penalties for certain aggravating circumstances.

Maddy summaryHB 2814 establishes rules for Arizona state agencies handling certain federal funds called "noncustodial federal monies," which include block grants and other funds where Arizona has broad spending flexibility (like health or housing programs). The bill requires agencies to track these funds in separate accounts and mandates that the legislature must specify how the funds can be used when appropriating them. If actual funds received differ from the appropriation amount, the budget must adjust proportionally - reducing spending if funds are less, or crediting excess to the agency if funds exceed the appropriation. This bill directly affects state agencies managing federal programs, ensuring clearer accountability without changing how funds are spent.

Maddy summaryHB 2733 grants legal immunity to Arizona government agencies and employees (like law enforcement) who intercept, disable, or destroy unmanned aircraft (drones) within 30 miles of the state's international border. It protects them from liability for injuries caused during these actions unless they intentionally harmed someone or were grossly negligent. The law specifically applies to drone operators (defined as anyone controlling a drone, including owners or groups acting together) and covers contractors working for government entities. This bill directly affects border enforcement practices and drone operators operating near Arizona's international border.

Maddy summaryHB 2607 increases sentencing for fentanyl offenses involving large quantities (200+ grams) in motor vehicles or for sale. It mandates a minimum 5-year prison sentence (up to 15 years) for possessing fentanyl in a vehicle or selling it in such amounts, with harsher penalties (10-20 years) for repeat offenses. The bill also requires a $2,000+ fine, prohibits probation for these offenses, and mandates 360 hours of community service with drug rehabilitation or victim services. This law directly affects individuals convicted of qualifying fentanyl-related crimes in Arizona.