PHX Reporter

The Arizona House Republican Majority is moving forward with legislation aimed at classifying drug cartels as terrorist organizations. House Speaker Steve Montenegro is spearheading this initiative through House Bill 2855 (HB2855) and House Concurrent Resolution 2055 (HCR2055). The goal is to empower the Arizona Department of Homeland Security to take comprehensive actions against these criminal groups.

"Arizona is on the frontlines of a war that Washington has refused to fight until President Trump arrived. These cartels are not just smuggling drugs; they are running sophisticated, brutal operations that profit off human misery—trafficking women and children, flooding our streets with fentanyl, and killing Americans at an unprecedented rate," said Speaker Montenegro. "This is a necessary step in our fight to defend Arizona communities, uphold the rule of law, and protect innocent lives."

The state faces increasing cartel violence as transnational criminal organizations manage the import and distribution of dangerous drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin. From 2021 to 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepted 282 individuals on the terrorist watchlist illegally entering the southwest border—a significant increase over previous years. Additionally, fentanyl seizures at the border have nearly tripled.

These legislative measures align with the House Republican Majority Plan focused on public safety and protecting individual liberties. Proposition 314 was passed by Arizonans, highlighting the importance of securing borders and stopping cartel-related crime. HB2855 and HCR2055 aim to address these issues by recognizing the threat posed by these organizations.

Both bills have passed through the House Judiciary Committee and are moving towards a full House vote. "Arizona House Republicans stand firm in our commitment to protect our state. We will take decisive action to secure our border, fight fentanyl, and stop the cartels that are waging war on our communities," added Speaker Montenegro. He also noted that Governor Hobbs vetoed similar legislation previously but expressed hope for her support this time. If not, HCR2055 will be presented directly to Arizona voters.

Steve Montenegro serves as Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives for Legislative District 29 in areas including Goodyear and Surprise.

Information from this article can be found here.