The proposed bill, HB513 Engrossed, amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the collection and dissemination of biometric identifiers, particularly by law enforcement agencies. Key provisions include the authorization for law enforcement officers to utilize approved biometric identification devices, the establishment of the Alabama Background Check Service, and the creation of the Alabama Rap Back Program. The bill introduces definitions for terms such as "background check," "criminal history record information," and "noncriminal justice purpose," while also repealing Article 4 of Chapter 2 of Title 32, which pertains to criminal history information. Additionally, it mandates that the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) conduct background checks for noncriminal justice purposes, set fees for these checks, and outlines penalties for misuse of background check reports.

Significant changes include the requirement for written consent from individuals before their background information can be released, with specific provisions for individuals under 18 years of age requiring parental consent. The bill expands the scope of entities eligible to request background checks, including employers and educational institutions, and emphasizes the need for compliance with Alabama Justice Information Commission (AJIC) rules. The Alabama Rap Back Program is established to notify participating entities of enrolled individuals involved in criminal events, and penalties for misuse of background check reports are classified as a Class B misdemeanor. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to ensure the privacy and security of shared information while broadening the use of background checks beyond criminal justice contexts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 41-9-590, 41-9-594, 41-9-625, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-590, 41-9-594, 41-9-625, 41-9-650
Engrossed: 41-9-590, 41-9-594, 41-9-625, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-650, 41-9-590, 41-9-594, 41-9-625, 41-9-650