STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX –Legislation to protect the anonymity of Arizonans who submit crime tips through Silent Witness and other community tip lines was signed into law Friday, delivering a major win for public safety and victim protection.

HB2388, sponsored by State Representative David Marshall, prohibits the disclosure of information that could identify someone who provides an anonymous tip, unless a court finds good cause for release. The law also establishes guidelines for the use of tip information in legal proceedings and how long records must be retained.

“Anonymous crime reporting saves lives and solves cases—but only if people feel safe coming forward,” said Representative Marshall, who chairs the House Committee on Public Safety & Law Enforcement. “This law ensures that when Arizonans step up to report dangerous criminals, their privacy will be protected. It balances the needs of law enforcement, prosecutors, and the accused while protecting the integrity of trusted community programs like Silent Witness and Operation Game Thief.”

The law places firm limits on when tip-related records can be disclosed, outlines retention rules for written tips, and requires court oversight before any identifying information may be subpoenaed. Prosecutors can still fulfill legal or ethical disclosure duties, but anonymous tips are otherwise presumed confidential.

HB2388 passed with strong bipartisan support in both legislative chambers. The measure advances the House Republican Majority Plan to promote public safety and protect individual rights.

“Arizonans deserve safe neighborhoods and confidence that their privacy will be respected when they report a crime,” Representative Marshall added. “With this new law, we’re reinforcing the rule of law and giving law enforcement another tool to keep our communities secure.”

David Marshall is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 7, which includes Pinal, Gila, Coconino, and Navajo Counties. He also serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Public Safety & Law Enforcement. Follow him on X at @DaveMarshallAZ.