What would happen if it passed this election?

PHOENIX (AZFamily) – While early voting is underway in Arizona, Arizona’s family takes a closer look at one of the ballot measures voters across the state will see in this election.

What is Prop 311?

Prop 311 would create a new state death benefit fund that would be paid to the surviving spouse or children of a first responder killed by another person’s crime. The recipient(s) would receive a lump sum payment of $250,000.

“Not so much that it puts a strain on state coffers, but enough to show appreciation for first responders,” said State Senator David Gowan.

Gowan supported legislation that put Prop 311 on the ballot this November.

Money from the fund, capped at $2 million, would have to be paid out to the family within 30 days of the state’s notification of a first responder’s death.

“Once the 2 million limit is reached and anything beyond that, the Legislature will have the authority to help our first responders with equipment and programs,” Gowan explained.

Money for the state death benefit fund would be raised by creating a new $20 fee that would be levied on every criminal conviction. Therein lie many of the arguments against this ballot measure.

Arizona general election 2024 promotional brochure

Click/tap the link above for more information about Prop 311 in the voting guide. The information begins on page 280.

If passed, the criminal conviction fee and state death benefit fund would take effect in July 2025 and be eliminated in early 2033.

The bill would also increase the criminal penalty for committing aggravated assault against peace officers and add more first responders as possible victims of this crime.

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