Bill > SB157

This bill amends existing Alabama law to designate footage from law enforcement body-worn cameras and dashboard cameras as public records, meaning they are generally available for public inspection. The bill clarifies definitions for terms like "body-worn camera," "custodial law enforcement agency" (the agency that owns or operates the recording equipment), and "recording" (which now broadly includes visual, audio, or both captured by law enforcement during their duties, excluding internal investigations or suspect interviews). Importantly, the bill removes previous restrictions that limited disclosure only to individuals directly involved in the recording or their representatives, and instead states that such recordings are public records subject to inspection under existing public records laws, specifically referencing Section 36-12-40. While recordings are now public records, law enforcement agencies can deny release if it would "substantially interfere" with an ongoing investigation or prosecution, such as endangering a witness. Individuals whose requests are denied can seek judicial review. The bill also establishes a 30-day timeframe for agencies to respond to requests for recordings and allows them to charge a reasonable fee for production and redaction, with the effective date set for October 1, 2026.

Military Affairs and Security

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