New Arizona Law Prohibits Bystanders From Recording Video Within 8 Feet of Police Incidents

Critics argue the law violates the First Amendment

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey speaks during a bill signing in Phoenix on April 15, 2021. Ross D. Franklin/AP Photo

Arizona’s Republican Gov. Doug Ducey has signed into law HB 2319, which bans the public from recording video within 8 feet of police activity.

Any person who knowingly makes a video within 8 feet of police activity could be charged with a class 3 misdemeanor and would likely incur a fine without jail time. Officers are required to warn anyone recording video within 8 feet before arresting them.