Bill > HB224

This bill amends Alabama's laws regarding obstruction of governmental operations by expanding definitions and creating new prohibitions related to first responders. The bill updates key terms in the state legal code, adding "firefighter" as a synonym for fireman and introducing a new definition for "first responder" with a cross-reference to another state law section. It also adds a definition for "harass," describing it as engaging in conduct intended to cause substantial emotional distress without a legitimate purpose. The bill significantly expands obstruction of governmental operations provisions by creating a new subsection that makes it a crime to intentionally approach or remain within 100 feet of a first responder after being instructed to leave, with the intent to impede their duties, threaten physical harm, or harass them. This new provision applies to situations where first responders are performing lawful governmental functions and seeks to protect these critical workers from potential interference or intimidation. The changes will take effect on October 1, 2025, and violations would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor under Alabama law.

Justice

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search