The proposed bill, HB202, introduces new sections to the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically Sections 6-5-338.1 through 6-5-338.4, which provide legal immunities for law enforcement officers from civil liability and criminal prosecution while performing their duties. It defines key terms such as "law enforcement officer," "discretionary authority," and "recklessly without law enforcement justification," and outlines the conditions under which these immunities can be asserted, along with exceptions for tortious conduct or violations of established rights. The bill also repeals Section 6-5-338, which previously addressed peace officer immunity, and mandates the collection of data on use of force complaints, establishing a Joint Legislative Study Commission on Law Enforcement Legal Protections to evaluate these issues.

Additionally, HB202 amends existing laws to extend immunity protections to law enforcement officers acting within their discretionary authority and requires private employers of off-duty officers to maintain liability insurance of at least $500,000 for actions taken while performing security work. The bill clarifies the responsibilities of sheriffs and their deputies, ensuring they receive the same legal protections when acting within their duties. It also modifies justifications for the use of physical force by law enforcement, emphasizing constitutional protections. The bill mandates data collection on use of force incidents, including demographic information, and establishes a study commission to assess the impact of these legal changes, with a report due to the Legislature 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