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Committee advances bill increasing penalties for dangerous unlawful flight
Summary
After testimony from law enforcement about high-speed pursuits and community safety, the committee returned HB 21‑08 with a do-pass recommendation (6–3). Opponents raised concerns about unmarked vehicles and community-police relations.
The House Judiciary Committee on Jan. 8, 2026 recommended HB 21‑08 for further consideration, a bill that increases penalties for unlawful flight when the conduct recklessly endangers life or involves aggravating factors such as transporting a child under 13 or committing DUI while fleeing.
Sponsor Representative Teresa Martinez said the bill clarifies standards and protects public safety: "When the police tell you to stop, you stop. Period," she said. County law-enforcement witnesses described hundreds of pursuits and high-speed incidents, with one witness noting 92 pursuits in Pinal County last year.
Some civil-society witnesses urged caution. Hugo Polanco (Rural Arizona Action) opposed the bill, saying increased penalties could deepen mistrust between police and rural communities and urged de-escalation and community-focused responses.
Committee members asked about unmarked vehicles and safety for motorists and called for clarity on how the bill would apply in different contexts. After debate the committee adopted a do-pass recommendation by recorded vote (6 yes, 3 no). The bill will move on to floor consideration.
