All, The bill has been assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Senator Rogers killed the senate version several weeks ago. The House version stands a chance, but Senator Rogers has made it clear she does not want to hear the bill. This issue impacts many of us daily but she is too busy playing politics - there is NO valid reason provided on why she refuses to hear the bill. We must demand her, and her committee hear the bill. Please send the following email as soon as possible.

TO:  WROGERS@azleg.gov, wendy@wendyrogers.org, ANALISE.ORTIZ@azleg.gov, analise@ortizforaz.com, LKUBY@azleg.gov, Lauren@KubyForSenate.com, JKAVANAGH@azleg.gov, drjkavanagh@gmail.com, WPETERSEN@azleg.gov, JSHAMP@azleg.gov, PSUNDARESHAN@azleg.gov, THATATHLIE@azleg.gov, Hatathlie.Theresa@gmail.com, MFINCHEM@azleg.gov, Mark@VoteFinchem.com, MarkF@VoteFinchem.com, SBOLICK@azleg.gov, info@bolickforarizona.com, wendyjrogers@gmail.com, SecondChanceAZ@gmail.com

Subject:  Committee Needs to Hear HB 2658

Message:

Chair and Members,

Arizona is home to thousands of dedicated men and women who want to serve their country and communities—but outdated laws are holding them back from jobs, military service, and economic opportunity.

HB2658 is a commonsense, bipartisan bill that passed the Arizona House in a landslide—56-1. Republicans and Democrats alike agreed that one minor mistake from childhood or young adulthood should not be a life sentence to hardship.

This bill only applies to nonviolent, non-serious, and non-repetitive offenses. It does not grant automatic expungement—a person must petition the court, and approval is only granted if both a judge and prosecutor agree. This ensures that public safety remains the priority while allowing those who have proven rehabilitation a fair chance to move forward.

Why HB2658 Matters:
- Strengthens Arizona’s workforce – Many industries, including military and defense, are struggling to fill positions. Employers often don’t object to the incident itself—but workplace policies automatically disqualify applicants with a record, forcing businesses to lose qualified candidates.
- Supports veterans & service members – PTSD is linked to higher rates of misdemeanor offenses, making it harder for veterans transitioning back into civilian life to secure stable jobs. This bill helps those who have served our country regain their footing.
- Encourages personal responsibility – Individuals must actively apply, go before a judge, and receive approval from both the court and a prosecutor—this is not a free pass.
- Reduces government dependency & increases efficiency – When people can work, they don’t need government assistance. This bill reduces the burden on state resources and streamlines the judicial system by allowing courts to focus on more serious cases. It’s a fiscally responsible, conservative solution.

This bill is about accountability, opportunity, and ensuring Arizonans aren’t permanently punished for youthful mistakes. We urge the Arizona Senate Judiciary Committee and Senate leadership to move HB2658 forward without delay.