The proposed bill HB227 Engrossed amends the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically Sections 13A-10-60 and 13A-10-61, to strengthen definitions and penalties related to bribery and public ethics. It introduces a new section, 13A-10-61.1, which criminalizes the use of public office for personal financial gain, while repealing Sections 13A-10-62 and 13A-10-82, which dealt with conflicts of interest and misuse of public information. The bill also replaces the existing public ethics code by repealing Chapter 25 and adding a new Chapter 25B, which revises the State Ethics Commission's structure, duties, and penalties for ethics violations. Key changes include redefined terms such as "public servant" and "pecuniary benefit," new penalties for unethical conduct, and guidelines for the Attorney General to provide legal opinions on ethical matters.

Additionally, the bill outlines new requirements for lobbyist registrations, conflict of interest regulations, and the filing of Statements of Economic Interests by public servants. It establishes a two-year restriction on public servants from soliciting employment with businesses they regulated, and mandates that public servants disclose detailed financial information. The bill emphasizes transparency and accountability by requiring the commission to maintain a public website and conduct audits of governmental bodies. It also introduces penalties for violations, including civil penalties for false statements related to the commission's activities. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2025, and aims to enhance ethical standards and government accountability in Alabama.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-10-61, 13A-10-62, 13A-10-82, 36-15-1
Engrossed: 13A-10-61, 13A-10-62, 13A-10-82, 36-15-1