Bill > HB168

This bill amends existing Alabama law regarding the crime of loitering and authorizes mask usage policies on school campuses. Specifically, it clarifies that loitering by being masked is a crime, but provides exceptions for individuals attending masquerade parties, participating in public parades or presentations of an educational, religious, or historical character, or wearing a medical or surgical grade mask during a protest, demonstration, or public assembly to comply with a healthcare provider's guidance to prevent the spread of infectious disease, though law enforcement may request documentation or removal of the mask for identification purposes. The bill also defines "dangerous drug" as any narcotic drug or controlled substance as defined in state law and clarifies penalties for loitering, with subsequent violations in the same jurisdiction becoming a Class C misdemeanor. Furthermore, it allows local school boards and governing bodies of public higher education institutions to establish their own policies regarding mask use during protests or assemblies on their property, with violations leading to administrative discipline but not criminal charges under the loitering statute.

Business and Industry, Justice

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