It's no secret that your line of work can grant special privileges depending on your vocation. Government employees also have particular benefits, although one Senator faces backlash for using his to escape a speeding ticket.
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According to ABC15, a police trooper pulled over State Senator Jake Hoffman on January 22 for speeding. He was reportedly driving 89MPH in a 65MPH zone. However, he escaped any fines or repercussions thanks to a handy section in the Arizona constitution granting 'legislative immunity.'
Section six of the Arizona constitution reads, "Members of the legislature shall be privileged from arrest in all cases except treason, felony, and breach of the peace, and they shall not be subject to any civil process during the session of the legislature, nor for fifteen days next before the commencement of each session."
Per a report by the New York Post, it appears using legislative immunity was actually the trooper's idea. The officer allegedly "recognized and verified that Mr. Hoffman is an Arizona State Senator and currently in legislative session."
Authorities class speeding as a civil matter in Copper State, and the trooper allowed Hoffman to continue driving without penalty. According to ABC15, a spokesperson for Hoffman said he did not invoke immunity during the stop. The Department of Public Safety can seek citations after the legislative session, but it's not a requirement.
The Incident Has Garnered Backlash From An Arizona Lawmaker
Per a report by AZ Family, Republican State Rep. Quang Nguyen, chair of the House Judiciary Committee, wants to change the legislation so officials must adhere to the same rules as regular citizens.
"Elected officials should not have special privileges that allow them to break the law without accountability. The people we serve are expected to follow traffic laws, and legislators should be no different. If a lawmaker is caught speeding, running a red light, or committing any other traffic violation, they should face the same consequences as everyone else," Nguyen said. He added "Lawmakers should follow the same laws they create and enforce. We are lawmakers, not lawbreakers."
The resolution is reportedly being considered in the Arizona House.
