Bill > HB295

This bill modifies Alabama's military disciplinary code, expanding the authority of commanding officers to impose non-judicial punishments on military personnel. The bill allows brigade or battalion-level commanders to impose disciplinary actions such as admonitions, reprimands, privilege withholding, pay forfeiture, and rank reductions for enlisted members. Specifically, it introduces a new provision that allows reduction of enlisted members in E-4 and below to the lowest pay grade, and enables higher-ranking officers (Governor, Adjutant General, or general/flag rank commanders) to reduce enlisted members in E-5 through E-9 by up to two pay grades. The bill clarifies definitions of "day" for different military purposes, emphasizes that punishments can only be imposed when members are in military status, and maintains existing provisions for appealing punishments and protecting individual rights. Additionally, the bill modifies special court-martial jurisdiction to allow rank reductions for soldiers and airmen up to E-9, expanding the previous limit of E-6. The changes will become effective on October 1, 2025, and are designed to provide more flexible disciplinary options for military leadership while maintaining a structured approach to non-judicial punishment.

Military Affairs and Security

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