HB2675

THE CONTEXT: Laws 2006, Chapter 317 established AZDOHS with the primary directive of deterring and mitigating acts of terrorism and other domestic security concerns. Current law requires AZDOHS to: 1) Formulate policies, plans and programs to enhance Arizona's ability to prevent and respond to acts of terrorism, cybersecurity threats and other critical hazards; 2) Adhere to all federal grant terms and conditions; 3) Request appropriations or grants of monies for homeland security purposes; 4) Receive all awards granted to Arizona by the federal government for homeland security purposes; and 5) Distribute monies to local j...

WHAT THE BILL DID: The final vetoed version would declares that drug cartels are terrorist organizations, require AZDOHS to do everything within its authority to address the threat posed by drug cartels, and define drug cartel and threat.

WHY IT MATTERED: The practical reason for this bill was to make the government process for drug cartels more definite and accountable. It would declares that drug cartels are terrorist organizations, and would also require AZDOHS to do everything within its authority to address the threat posed by drug cartels, rather than leave the current rule unchanged.