This bill seeks to amend Sections 26-15-2 and 26-15-3 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to expand the definition of child abuse. The amendment includes the insertion of a new term, "mistreat," which is defined as any intentional behavior that inflicts unnecessary or unjustifiable pain or suffering on a child without causing physical injury. This new definition is intended to address non-physical forms of abuse that can still cause harm to a child.

The bill also amends Section 26-15-3 by adding "willfully mistreat" to the list of actions that, when committed by a responsible person against a child under the age of 18, would constitute a Class C felony. The deletion in the bill removes the phrase "as defined in Section 26-15-2" from Section 26-15-3, streamlining the text. The bill acknowledges that it may require new or increased local expenditures but is excluded from further requirements under Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama of 2022 because it defines a new crime or amends an existing one. The act will become effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor, or its otherwise becoming law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26-15-3, 26-15-3, 26-15-3
Engrossed: 26-15-2, 26-15-3