The bill amends Sections 13A-7-4.3, 13A-7-25, and 13A-7-26 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the definitions and penalties related to crimes involving critical infrastructure facilities. Notably, the definition of "critical infrastructure facility" is expanded to include various types of facilities such as chemical manufacturing plants, pipelines, electrical power generating facilities, and newly added categories like defense contractor facilities and pulp and paper manufacturing facilities. The bill also clarifies that unauthorized entry into these facilities can result in a Class A misdemeanor, while more severe actions that cause damage or disruption can lead to a Class C felony.

Additionally, the bill introduces new language regarding criminal tampering, specifying that individuals who intentionally or recklessly cause substantial interruption to utility services or tamper with utility property can be charged with criminal tampering in the first or second degree, respectively. The penalties for these offenses are classified as a Class C felony for first-degree tampering and a Class B misdemeanor for second-degree tampering. The bill also includes provisions that protect lawful actions taken by state or local governments on their rights-of-way and clarifies that certain actions taken within the scope of employment are exempt from these charges. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-7-25, 13A-7-26
Engrossed: 13A-7-25, 13A-7-26
Enrolled: 13A-7-25, 13A-7-26