Signed by Governor Doug Ducey

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that revises Arizona statutes related to terrorism and imposes a minimum sentence of 10 years for certain terrorist-related crimes.

Highlights:

• Expands the definition of “terrorism” to include any felony committed with the intent to intimidate or coerce a civilian population and further the goals, desires, aims, public pronouncements, manifestos or political objectives of a terrorist organization, if the offense involves (Sec. 3):

• The use of a deadly weapon or weapon of mass destruction; or

• Knowledge of the infliction of serious physical injury.

• Expands the offense of terrorism to include providing advice, assistance or direction in the financing, management or conduct of a terrorist organization (Sec. 4).

• Specifies that an individual committing an act of terrorism may receive a life or natural life sentence (Sec. 4).

• Specifies the sentencing range for an individual convicted of terrorism who does not receive a life or natural life sentence to be a minimum of 10 years, presumptive of 16 years, and a maximum of 25 years, unless specified otherwise (Sec. 4).

• Classifies the following as a class 3 felony subject to a 2.5-year sentence and a fine of up to $150,000 plus surcharges (Sec. 5):

• Making a terrorist threat; and

• Falsely reporting  terrorism.

• Specifies that it is not a defense to claim that an individual did not intend or have the capability to commit the terrorist act (Sec. 5).

• Expands the definition of a public establishment by (Sec. 3):

• Including any vehicle or craft; and

• Specifying that the structure, vehicle or craft is included in the definition of a public establishment if it is owned, leased or operated by a political subdivision, public agency, or the federal government.

• Specifies that an individual convicted of making a terrorist threat or false reporting of terrorism is liable for certain expenses related to the investigation or response to the threat or report (Sec. 5).

• Defines a terrorist organization as any organization designated as a domestic or foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. Department of State or federal law (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text