New year, new laws: from stricter DUI procedures to wage increases and updated housing and tax rules, here are the laws Arizonans should know as we enter 2026.
Familiarizing yourself with Arizona’s updated laws isn’t just smart, it’s essential. The old legal axiom ignorantia juris non excusat (“ignorance of the law is no excuse”) still applies today. Not knowing the law typically doesn’t protect you from its consequences.
Jeff GOULD Law is the Attorney in YOUR Corner, and we believe knowledge gives you power and protection. With decades of legal experience in Arizona, we’re here to help you understand the changes that may affect your rights, responsibilities, and decisions in 2026.
(Note: This article highlights the most impactful statewide changes. Always check local ordinances and executive orders for specifics.)
Table of Contents
1. DUI Enforcement: “Impairment to the Slightest Degree” Stays Firmly in Place
Arizona continues to maintain one of the toughest DUI standards in the nation. For 2026, the legal thresholds themselves haven’t changed, but enforcement emphasis has.
A driver may still be charged with DUI if:
- Their BAC is above 0.08%, OR
- An officer believes they are impaired to the slightest degree, even below 0.08%, OR
- Illegal drugs (or their metabolites) are detected, even without a high BAC.
Why this matters: Arizona’s broad impairment standard means drivers can be arrested and charged even if they “feel fine” or are technically under the legal limit.
2. License Suspension Rules Tightened After DUI Arrest or Test Refusal
While BAC limits remain unchanged, procedural changes took effect this year regarding administrative license suspensions. Key updates include:
- Stricter penalties for refusing alcohol or drug testing
- Refusal now triggers an automatic suspension with fewer opportunities to challenge it.
- Longer suspension periods for repeat refusals
- Mandatory alcohol/drug screening before reinstatement
- A driver cannot get their license back until they complete state-required screening.
Why this matters: Drivers who refuse testing, hoping to avoid charges, may actually face harsher administrative consequences. Understanding your rights in these interactions is critical.
3. Minimum Wage Increase: More Cash in Workers’ Pockets
Arizona’s statewide minimum wage rises to $15.15/hour on January 1, 2026. This is part of the Fair Wages and Healthy Families Act, which adjusts Arizona’s minimum wage annually for inflation. Employers must update payroll systems and postings to comply, and workers should see more take-home pay this year.
Why it matters: A higher minimum wage affects hiring, scheduling, and payroll compliance across industries.
4. Middle Housing Law: More Duplexes and Fourplexes Allowed
A major housing law (House Bill 2721, also known as the Middle Housing Law) now requires many larger cities in Arizona to allow duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes in areas zoned for single-family homes. The goal is to increase housing options and affordability in cities like Phoenix and within certain districts.
Who it affects: Homeowners, developers, and municipalities navigating zoning and neighborhood planning.
5. Expanded Tax Breaks for Veterans, Families & Small Businesses
Several tax-related updates take effect in January 2026, offering financial relief to families, veterans, and small business owners throughout Arizona. These changes may seem technical at first glance, but they can create real savings when used correctly. Here’s what to know:
Veterans
- Removal of income caps on certain pension exclusions
- Expanded property tax exemption eligibility
- Result: More veterans and surviving spouses may receive meaningful annual savings.
Adoptive Parents
Larger deductions for qualified adoption expenses, including legal fees, placement costs, and required travel. Result: Adoption becomes more financially accessible.
Small Businesses
The threshold for personal property tax exemptions was doubled, allowing more equipment and assets to qualify for exemption. Result: Lower operating costs for new and growing businesses.
6. New Rules on Access to Video Evidence in Serious Accidents
A procedural update now requires law enforcement and prosecutors to provide all relevant video evidence at no cost to:
Victims of serious crimes and accidents
Immediate family members when the victim is incapacitated or deceased
This includes body-worn camera footage, dash camera recordings, and other digital evidence.
Why it matters: Video evidence can be critical in personal injury cases, criminal defense, and wrongful death claims. Faster access means victims and families have a stronger foundation when pursuing legal action or insurance claims.
How These Changes Affect You
Whether you are facing a DUI, were injured in an accident, own a home or small business, are a veteran, or a taxpayer, these statewide changes may influence:
- Your rights during a DUI stop or accident investigation
- Your payroll or employment policies
- Your ability to build, buy, or develop property
- Your state tax liability
- Your access to vital evidence in legal claims
When laws change, so do your responsibilities — and your protections.
Need Help Understanding Arizona’s New Laws?
At Jeff GOULD Law, we’re committed to helping Arizonans navigate the legal landscape with confidence. Whether you have questions about DUI laws, license suspensions, accident liability, or how new rules affect your situation, we are the attorneys in YOUR corner. Understanding the law shouldn’t be harder than following it.
Don’t DELAY: Call Jeff GOULD Law, the Attorney In YOUR Corner – TODAY!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this blog/site is not intended to be legal advice. It is for general informational use only. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your situation. Further, this information does not create an attorney-client relationship.