Relating to firearms; to amend Section 13A-11-95, Code of Alabama 1975, as added by Act 2022-133, 2022 Regular Session, to provide that failure by a person to inform a law enforcement officer that he or she is in possession of a concealed pistol or firearm upon request is a Class A misdemeanor; and in connection therewith would have as its purpose or effect the requirement of a new or increased expenditure of local funds within the meaning of Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama 2022.
The enactment of HB12 is expected to create a significant change in how concealed carry laws are enforced in Alabama. By formalizing the expectation to inform law enforcement officers about the possession of concealed firearms, the bill not only impacts individuals carrying firearms but could also influence police training and procedures. Additionally, the bill states that implementing this change may require an increase in local expenditures, as outlined in Section 111.05 of the Alabama Constitution of 2022.
House Bill 12 aims to amend Section 13A-11-95 of the Code of Alabama 1975, which governs the possession of concealed firearms. The bill introduces a new requirement mandating that individuals inform a law enforcement officer if they are carrying a concealed pistol or firearm when asked. This change designates the failure to do so as a Class A misdemeanor, thereby establishing a legal penalty for noncompliance with this duty to inform.
Supporters of HB12 argue that the bill promotes transparency during police interactions and enhances officer safety by ensuring that they are aware if an individual is armed. However, opponents may raise concerns regarding potential overreach, particularly about the implications this law could have on responsible gun owners and the nature of law enforcement interactions. The specified class misdemeanor raises questions about legal repercussions and how those may affect individuals who unintentionally fail to disclose their firearm status during an encounter with the police.