The bill amends various sections of the Code of Alabama 1975 to strengthen immigration enforcement within the state. Key provisions include the requirement for jail administrators to assess the immigration status of detained individuals under certain conditions and the establishment of a new crime of human smuggling, which is classified as a Class C felony. The bill introduces new definitions, such as "illegal alien," and modifies existing terms, replacing "person" with "individual." It also repeals Section 31-13-13, which previously addressed illegal aliens, and emphasizes the necessity of federal verification for determining immigration status while outlining the presumption of lawful presence for individuals with valid identification.

Additionally, the bill mandates that law enforcement make reasonable attempts to verify the immigration status of individuals in custody, particularly those charged with specific felonies or misdemeanors, while prohibiting officers from independently determining immigration status. It establishes procedures for cooperation with federal authorities regarding individuals identified as illegal aliens and includes exemptions for certain professionals, such as attorneys and educators, from the human smuggling offense when performing their official duties. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 31-13-3, 31-13-12, 31-13-18
Engrossed: 31-13-3, 31-13-12, 31-13-18
Enrolled: 31-13-3, 31-13-12, 31-13-18