Finchem, Rogers Bill to Recodify Arizona Rangers Advances

PHOENIX – A Senate proposal to repeal the Arizona Rangers’ statutory authority is advancing at the Capitol, raising broader questions about oversight of quasi-law-enforcement auxiliaries and the Legislature’s role in regulating volunteer support groups.

Senate Bill SB1071, sponsored by Sens. Mark Finchem and Wendy Rogers, would repeal multiple sections of Arizona law that formally recognize the Arizona Rangers and exempt the organization from state security guard licensing requirements. The measure would not dissolve the Rangers’ nonprofit status but would remove their special statutory footing and subject members to standard private security regulations.

The Arizona Rangers trace their origins to 1901, when territorial lawmakers authorized a small force to act as a state-level law enforcement body prior to statehood. Originally disbanded, they later reorganized in 1957 as a volunteer auxiliary. Modern statutory recognition came decades later, when the Rangers were codified and defined by law. That framework is what SB1071 would repeal, effectively returning the group to a private nonprofit status without unique recognition in state law.

The group is currently described in statute as “an unpaid, noncommissioned civilian auxiliary” available to assist law enforcement upon request. Members are not certified peace officers and have no arrest authority beyond that of a private citizen. They do, however, frequently partner with local police and sheriff’s offices for traffic control, perimeter security, and event support.

This bill follows reporting that raised concerns about the backgrounds and conduct of top Rangers leadership, as well as criticism from several county sheriffs who argued the organization lacks transparency in its vetting and training processes.

Opponents do caution that removing statutory recognition could disrupt partnerships that smaller jurisdictions rely on for supplemental manpower, particularly in rural areas with limited sworn personnel.

Lawmakers may pursue a full repeal as introduced or negotiate amendments that preserve the organization while transferring formal oversight to DPS. The outcome will set a precedent for how Arizona regulates other auxiliary or volunteer entities operating alongside law enforcement.

The measure cleared its first Senate committee and may be amended before reaching the full chambers.