The bill amends Section 6-5-122 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the ability of municipalities and public institutions of higher education to address public nuisances that negatively impact community health, morals, comfort, or welfare. The new language specifies that these entities can initiate actions to abate or enjoin such nuisances, replacing the previous requirement for actions to be taken in the name of the city. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that holds individuals who promote or organize unpermitted events responsible for compensating local governing authorities for expenses incurred in addressing the resulting nuisances, including costs for public safety, traffic control, and sanitation services.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that prevailing plaintiffs in these actions are entitled to recover court costs and reasonable attorney fees. Importantly, it clarifies that property owners, business owners, property managers, or landlords who are not involved in promoting the event cannot be held liable under this new provision. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6-5-122, 6-5-122
Engrossed: 6-5-122, 6-5-122