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Committee advances bill to remove time limit for prosecuting failure-to-register offenses
Summary
The committee recommended SB 1239, which would eliminate the statute of limitations for failing to register as a *** offender. Supporters, including the sponsor and DPS, said it closes a public-safety gap; civil‑liberties groups warned about due-process and evidentiary concerns from prosecuting old cases.
The Senate Judiciary and Elections Committee recommended SB 1239, which removes the statute of limitations for failing to register as a *** offender under ARS 13-3824, following testimony that DPS requested the change.
Sponsor Senator Champ framed the bill as closing a loophole that lets offenders evade oversight, arguing that aligning registration failures with other serious offenses sends a clear message on accountability. Supporters said removal of time limits would let prosecutors hold people who intentionally avoid registration accountable even years later.
Opponents focused on fairness and reliability of evidence over time. Kim Drogas testified that unlimited prosecution "undermines due process," arguing that memories fade, witnesses die and records are lost. Arizona Attorneys for Criminal Justice representatives questioned whether the bill addressed an actual process gap, noting existing mechanisms (warrants, prosecutor notifications) that can lead to arrest for noncompliance.
Committee action: After sponsor closing remarks, the committee voted to give SB 1239 a due-pass recommendation (recorded 4 ayes, 3 nos). The committee requested further consultation with DPS and stakeholders before floor action.
Next steps: SB 1239 advances to the Senate floor with a committee recommendation; the floor debate will examine whether existing law sufficiently captures noncompliance or if statutory change is required.
