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 defense contractor facilities and pulp and paper manufacturing facilities, while deleting the previous reference to "wireline or wireless communications infrastructure." The bill also clarifies the crime of unauthorized entry into a critical infrastructure facility, specifying that individuals can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor for unauthorized entry and a Class C felony for causing damage or interference during such entry, particularly if they are using an unmanned aircraft system with weapons.

Additionally, the bill modifies the definitions and penalties for criminal tampering. It introduces the terms "intentionally or recklessly" in the context of criminal tampering in both the first and second degrees, with the first degree being classified as a Class C felony and the second degree as a Class B misdemeanor. The bill also includes provisions that protect lawful actions taken by the state, counties, or municipalities on their respective rights-of-way, ensuring that these entities are not hindered in their operations. 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