President Petersen Delivers Public Safety Law to Fast Track Trained Veterans into Police Officers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, April 13, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate President Warren Petersen is delivering a major public safety win for Arizona communities. Today, his legislation, SB 1107, the "Military Police to Peace Officer Pathway Act," was signed into law, creating a new pathway for qualified former military police to become certified peace officers in Arizona.
At a time when law enforcement agencies across the state are facing officer shortages, this new law takes direct action to strengthen the pipeline of trained officers by recognizing the real-world experience of honorably discharged U.S. military police veterans.
SB 1107 directs the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board to establish an alternative certification pathway beginning January 1, 2027. Eligible applicants will be able to apply their military police training toward Arizona requirements, complete an abbreviated training program focused on Arizona law and procedures, and pass the certification exam while still meeting all existing background, medical, and psychological standards.
"Arizona needs more trained officers, and we have highly qualified veterans ready to step up right now," said President Petersen. "I made it a priority to get this done because public safety cannot wait. This law cuts through bureaucracy, respects the experience of our veterans, and gets more boots on the ground to keep our communities safe."
The concept for the legislation was brought forward by Jeanette Garcia, a former military police officer and current Avondale City Councilmember, whose firsthand experience helped shape the policy.
"Military police veterans already have real law enforcement training, discipline, and accountability," said Jeanette Garcia. "This law ensures that experience is recognized while maintaining Arizona's high standards. It creates a responsible pathway for veterans to continue serving their communities and helps strengthen public safety across our state."
SB 1107 received bipartisan support and backing from law enforcement organizations across Arizona, including the Arizona Police Association, which represents more than 12,000 officers statewide.
Law enforcement leaders across the state have consistently raised concerns about officer shortages. This law answers that call, giving departments a proven, ready-to-serve workforce while maintaining Arizona's high standards for policing.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus
kquintero@azleg.gov