The proposed bill HB202 aims to enhance legal protections for law enforcement officers in Alabama by introducing new sections to the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically Sections 6-5-338.1 through 6-5-338.4. These sections grant immunity from civil liability and criminal prosecution for officers acting within their discretionary authority, with exceptions for cases involving tortious conduct or violations of established rights. The bill also repeals Section 6-5-338, which previously addressed peace officer immunity, and amends various laws to ensure consistency with the new provisions. Additionally, it mandates the collection of data on use of force complaints and establishes the Joint Legislative Study Commission on Law Enforcement Legal Protections to evaluate the impact of these changes.

Furthermore, HB202 modifies existing laws regarding the use of physical force by law enforcement and individuals assisting them, replacing the term "peace officer" with "law enforcement officer" and clarifying the conditions under which force may be used. The bill introduces immunity provisions for individuals using justified force and outlines the process for asserting this immunity. It also requires law enforcement agencies to report data on use of force incidents, including demographic information. The study commission, composed of legislative leaders, will assess the implementation and effects of the new legal protections, with recommendations due by the 10th legislative day of the 2027 Regular Session. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Engrossed: 13A-3-20, 13A-3-27, 13A-3-28, 14-6-1, 36-22-3, 6-5-338, 6-5-338, 6-5-338, 6-5-338, 6-5-338
Enrolled: 13A-3-20, 13A-3-27, 13A-3-28, 14-6-1, 36-22-3, 6-5-338, 36-21-55