In November of 2020, Arizona voted to pass Proposition 207, also referred to as the Smart and Safe Act. Under the provisions of this law, marijuana is subject to state and local taxes. The Smart and Safe Act also imposes a 16% excise tax on cannabis. A portion of the revenue from these tax dollars is allotted to several of Arizona’s Government Agencies, to include the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, for the purpose of enforcing Arizona’s cannabis regulations.
The Safford Police Department was recently given the opportunity to submit a grant proposal for Prop 207 funding by the AZGOHS. This fund, established by A.R.S. 36-2817, allows Law Enforcement agencies to request monies for assistance in reducing impaired driving through dedicated traffic enforcement. The Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety awarded the Safford Police Department $72,191.00 for the purchase of 1 Police SUV, 1 Multi-directional In-Car Radar and $10,000.00 for Officer Overtime.
“Officers with the Safford Police Department are dedicated to making sure our streets and highways are safe, not only for our citizens, but for all those who travel through our city. Our motorist, pedestrians and cyclist can be assured, it is a goal of our department to target those who choose to drive while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. We have zero tolerance for impaired and aggressive drivers who have no concern for the safety of others” says Safford Police Chief, Glen Orr.
Chief Orr extends his appreciation to Alberto Gutier, Director of the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety stating “Director Gutier has been very supportive of our agency over the years. This support has made it possible to place additional officers on our streets and provide them reliable equipment to effectively carry out their duties. Our Department values the ongoing relationship we share with Director Gutier and his Office.”
