The bill amends Section 43-8-253 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to address the consequences of elder abuse and exploitation on inheritance and property rights. Key insertions include provisions that state a surviving spouse, heir, legatee, or devisee who "abuses or" feloniously and intentionally kills the decedent may not receive any benefits under the will or related legal frameworks, and the estate will pass as if the abuser had predeceased the decedent. Additionally, joint tenants who commit such acts will be deemed severed from the decedent's interest, and any benefits from bonds or life insurance policies will similarly be forfeited.

The bill also clarifies that a conviction for elder abuse or financial exploitation is conclusive for the purposes of this section, and it mandates that such convictions be recorded in the probate office of the relevant counties. Furthermore, it establishes that individuals or entities facilitating property acquisition under these circumstances are not liable unless they have received prior written notice of a claim. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43-8-253
Engrossed: 43-8-253