AZ SB1163

Amends Arizona Revised Statutes sections 36-524 and 36-525 to authorize police officers employed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to take into custody and transport veterans to screening or evaluation agencies for emergency mental health evaluation.

Allows VA police officers to make telephonic applications for emergency admission and to apprehend and transport veterans based on reasonable cause that emergency examination is necessary, consistent with procedures available to peace officers.

Extends civil liability protections to VA police officers who make good faith efforts to follow emergency admission and transportation requirements, matching protections previously available only to peace officers.

Becomes effective immediately as an emergency measure necessary to preserve public peace, health, or safety.

Approved by the Governor on April 18, 2025 and filed with the Secretary of State on April 21, 2025.