AL
Alabama House Bill HB58

Alabama 2025 Regular Session

Alabama House Bill HB58

Filed/Read First Time
 
Introduced
2/4/25  
Refer
2/4/25  

Caption

Firearms; criminal penalty established for failure to inform of one's concealed possession under certain circumstances

Impact

The enactment of HB 58 would have significant implications for individuals carrying concealed firearms in Alabama. By creating a misdemeanor offense for failing to disclose firearm possession during police inquiries, the bill would modify the legal landscape around concealed carry. Advocates argue that this change will enhance safety by ensuring that law enforcement officers are aware of all potential threats when approaching individuals. However, it also raises concerns regarding the potential for it to inadvertently criminalize otherwise law-abiding citizens experiencing panic or uncertainty in high-pressure situations.

Summary

House Bill 58 proposes to establish a criminal penalty for individuals who fail to inform law enforcement officers of their possession of a concealed pistol or firearm under certain circumstances. Currently, Alabama law requires individuals to disclose this information when asked by a law enforcement officer, but there are no penalties for failing to do so. This bill aims to amend Section 13A-11-95 of the Code of Alabama by classifying noncompliance as a Class A misdemeanor, effectively instituting an enforcement mechanism for existing law.

Contention

There could be notable points of contention surrounding HB 58 as it moves through the legislative process. Supporters may argue that notifying law enforcement about concealed weapons is a reasonable requirement that promotes transparency and safety. Conversely, opponents may view the bill as an infringement on individual rights, citing concerns about the potential misuse of the law to penalize individuals unjustly or increase tensions in police interactions. The effective date of the bill is set for October 1, 2025, suggesting that further debate and possible amendments could occur before its final implementation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL HB20

Firearms, penalty for failure to inform when in possession and questioned

AL HB72

Firearms, to prohibit possession and transfer of assault weapons under certain circumstances

AL HB224

Firearms, criminal penalty for unreasonably secured firearm stored by parent in possession of child

AL HB414

Firearms, criminal penalty for unreasonably secured firearm stored by parent in possession of child

AL SB97

Firearms; criminally negligent storage, penalty for violation created

AL HB50

Criminal procedure; criminal convictions sealed under certain circumstances; procedures established; exceptions provided; civil cause of action established

AL SB57

Crimes & Offenses, prohibited picketing or protesting in certain circumstances and provided criminal penalties

AL HB266

Assault weapons, to prohibit possession and transfer in certain circumstances, provide for registration

AL HB56

Crimes and offenses; authorizes law enforcement officer to demand suspect's date of birth in certain circumstances, criminalizes providing false date of birth to law enforcement

AL HB411

Incarceration, supervised pre-incarceration probation for certain pregnant women provided for, self-surrender 12 weeks after birth required, criminal penalties for failure to surrender provided

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.