AZ HB2796

Requires criminal charges filed against politically engaged persons to be approved in advance by a majority of the attorney general and all applicable county attorneys using the same standards that would govern their own charging decisions.

Mandates court dismissal of charges without prejudice if advance approval is not obtained, unless the prosecution proves by preponderance of evidence that investigating and charging personnel had no notice or knowledge the defendant was politically engaged.

Allows prosecution to refile charges within three months of dismissal after obtaining the required approval, with dismissal motions to be filed no later than 30 days after charges are filed.

Defines "politically engaged person" to include current or former elected officials, candidates for office, electoral or legislative advocacy organizations, and employees, agents, vendors, consultants, attorneys, volunteers, and related parties of such individuals or entities within the preceding four years.