Gov. Doug Ducey said he signed an executive order Friday clarifying that "no one has immunity from breaking our laws and endangering citizens."
“No one is above the law, and certainly not politicians. Everyone should know that, but clearly a reminder is needed,” Ducey said in a release. “Public safety must come first, and we have a responsibility to ensure that our officers are supported in enforcing the law, and have the tools, under the Constitution, to hold all bad actors accountable."
Ducey's action comes after Rep. Paul Mosley, a Republican from Lake Havasu City, went viral earlier this month for bragging about speeding and claiming immunity during a traffic stop back in March.
The story sparked questions and concerns about legislative immunity in Arizona.
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.
In a series of tweets, Ducey said the order gives the Arizona Department of Public Safety the authority to cite elected officials for criminal violations.
"This executive order will provide Arizona’s officers with the support and trust they need to exercise their professional judgment and expertise without regard for an individual’s political stature,” Ducey said.
According to Ducey's order, all "criminal violation that endangers the safety of another" will be considered a "breach of the peace."