Panel advances bill barring early termination of probation for dangerous crimes against children amid fierce testimony
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Summary
HB 29‑66, which would prohibit courts from shortening probation for people convicted of dangerous crimes against children, drew extensive victim and survivor testimony and was given a do‑pass recommendation after members debated retroactivity, judicial discretion, and resource implications.
The House Judiciary Committee advanced HB 29‑66, a measure that would prohibit courts from terminating or shortening probation earlier than originally imposed for persons convicted of defined dangerous crimes against children.
Sponsor and supporters framed the bill as ensuring accountability and protecting victims from retraumatization. "Probation is often given in lieu of incarceration and it is a sentence that should stand," said Sherry Lopez of the Arizona Human Trafficking Survivors Coalition, urging the committee to preserve lifetime supervision where appropriate.
Multiple speakers recounted personal experiences. Kim Drogas described a son who clicked a link that downloaded images and now faces a lifetime of collateral consequences; she urged compassion but warned about retroactive consequences for defendants who may be victims themselves. Rebecca Baker of the Maricopa County Attorney's Office told the committee she had concerns about retroactivity and potential Ex Post Facto issues and suggested any prospective changes be carefully crafted to avoid constitutional problems and to identify resources for lifelong supervision.
Defense‑oriented witnesses and criminal‑justice groups warned the bill removes judicial discretion, risks sweeping in juveniles and vulnerable people, and could be applied to cases that differ widely in seriousness. Representatives of the courts recommended narrowly tailored criteria rather than a categorical bar. Some committee members said they supported the bill’s intent to protect children but sought amendments to clarify definitions and address constitutional and administrative concerns.
Ending: HB 29‑66 received a do‑pass recommendation. Committee members indicated a willingness to continue discussions about carve‑outs, prospective application, and criteria for release from probation, and staff and stakeholders identified possible technical amendments.