The bill introduces a new legal framework under Article 4B of Chapter 6 of Title 13A in the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically commencing with Section 13A-6-85. It establishes that it is unlawful for members of the clergy to engage in sexual acts with individuals under 19 years of age or protected persons under 22 years of age, with specific definitions provided for "child" and "clergy member." The bill outlines various offenses, including sexual intercourse, sodomy, and sexual contact, with consent not being a valid defense. Violations of these provisions are classified as either Class B or Class C felonies, depending on the nature of the offense.

Additionally, the bill prohibits clergy members from distributing obscene materials to minors or soliciting them to transmit such materials. Although the bill may require new or increased local expenditures, it is exempt from further requirements under Section 111.05 of the Alabama Constitution of 2022, as it defines new crimes or amends existing ones. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-6-85
Engrossed: 13A-6-85
Enrolled: 13A-6-85