Senate Republicans Act to Protect State Troopers, Pass Bill Allowing DPS to Seek Independent Legal Counsel
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 9, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate Republicans are taking action to protect Arizona's Department of Public Safety and ensure troopers have the legal support and resources they need to keep communities safe.
The Senate passed HB 2993 today, legislation allowing DPS to hire independent legal counsel and providing a $6.4 million supplemental appropriation to address operational needs impacting public safety across the state. The bill passed with Republican support, while every Senate Democrat voted no.
HB 2993 also makes DPS exempt from the requirement that state agencies rely solely on the Attorney General for legal representation, allowing the department to secure outside counsel when necessary. The bill appropriates funding from the Consumer Protection-Consumer Fraud Revolving Fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 to support DPS operations.
The legislation follows widespread concern over comments by Attorney General Kris Mayes suggesting that in certain circumstances the public could claim self-defense when using force against law enforcement officers. Those remarks prompted the Arizona Senate earlier this year to pass a resolution calling on Mayes to resign after lawmakers warned her rhetoric could endanger officers and create dangerous confusion about the law.
"Arizona's troopers risk their lives every day protecting our communities. They should never have to wonder whether the state's top lawyer has their back," said Senate President Warren Petersen. "When the Attorney General's rhetoric creates confusion about whether force can be used against law enforcement, that's a serious problem. This bill ensures DPS can obtain trusted legal counsel and gives the department the resources it needs to keep Arizonans safe."
"When officers are out on the road making split second decisions, the law must be clear and their legal backing must be solid," said Senate Majority Leader John Kavanagh. "HB 2993 strengthens DPS independence and ensures our troopers know the law is firmly on their side."
"Arizonans expect their government to stand with the officers who protect them," said Senate Public Safety Chairman Kevin Payne. "This bill helps ensure DPS can focus on public safety without political distractions or uncertainty about legal representation."
HB 2993 now heads to the Governor's desk.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus