The bill amends Sections 13A-10-240, 13A-10-241, and 13A-10-242 of the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically addressing the crime of making a terrorist threat. It revises the definitions and circumstances under which a threat constitutes a second-degree terrorist threat. Notably, the bill removes the previous definition of "threaten" and replaces it with a new definition that outlines the criteria for what constitutes a threat, including the requirement that the statement must be made with the intent to cause fear or harm. The bill also clarifies that a person threatens another when they communicate a statement that is credible and imminent, and that causes reasonable fear for safety.

Additionally, the bill establishes that making a terrorist threat in the second degree is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, while a second or subsequent violation escalates to a Class D felony. The amendments aim to provide clearer legal definitions and enhance the penalties associated with repeated offenses. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-10-240, 13A-10-241, 13A-10-242, 13A-10-240, 13A-10-241, 13A-10-242
Engrossed: 13A-10-240, 13A-10-241, 13A-10-242, 13A-10-240, 13A-10-241, 13A-10-242