Arizona 2025 Regular Session

Arizona House Bill HB2188

Introduced

1/28/25

Caption

National guard; active duty combat

Impact

The enactment of HB2188 would significantly impact the authority of state and federal government relations concerning military actions. By requiring state legislative approval for the National Guard's deployment in combat scenarios, the bill enhances the power of the state legislature and aims to counteract what its proponents view as an overreach by the executive branch in matters of war and peace. This measure echoes a growing sentiment among some state legislatures to assert their authority in military engagements historically dominated by federal decisions.

Summary

House Bill 2188 seeks to amend the Arizona Revised Statutes by adding a new section regarding the deployment of the National Guard in active duty combat. The bill stipulates that the National Guard cannot be called into active duty combat unless there is an official declaration of war from the United States Congress or specific authorization from the Arizona state legislature via concurrent resolution. This legislative measure is aimed at reaffirming the role of Congress in declaring war and ensuring that such significant military actions have state approval as well.

Contention

Notably, HB2188 touches on a central point of contention concerning the balance of power between the state and federal governments. The legislative findings emphasize concerns that modern military actions have occurred without official declarations of war for decades, suggesting that the federal executive branch has overstepped its constitutional bounds. Supporters of the bill cite historical arguments from figures such as Thomas Jefferson and James Madison to underline the necessity of legislative scrutiny over military engagements, while opponents might view this legislation as an unnecessary complication in the rapid response usually required for national defense.

Latest HB2188 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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