The bill SB118 Engrossed amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the collection and dissemination of biometric identifiers, particularly by law enforcement agencies. It establishes the Alabama Background Check Service and the Alabama Rap Back Program, allowing the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) to conduct background checks for noncriminal justice purposes, such as employment and licensing. Key changes include the insertion of definitions for "biometric identifiers," "background check," and "noncriminal justice purpose," while deleting outdated terminology. The bill also repeals Article 4 of Chapter 2 of Title 32, which previously governed the dissemination of criminal history information, and introduces a fee structure for background checks, along with penalties for misuse of background check reports.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for collecting biometric identifiers during arrests, mandating the collection of specific data like fingerprints and photographs, and allowing for additional identifiers such as iris scans and DNA. It requires arresting agencies to notify ALEA within 30 days if an individual is released without charge to ensure the removal of related information from ALEA systems. The bill also establishes a Privacy and Security Committee to evaluate the implications of sharing criminal justice information and allows ALEA to create necessary procedures without needing approval from the Administrative Procedure Act, provided they are approved by the commission. Overall, SB118 aims to modernize the management of criminal justice information while ensuring compliance with federal guidelines and protecting individual privacy rights.

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