The bill amends Section 13A-5-9 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to clarify the definition of "convicted" in relation to the habitual offender law. The new language specifies that "convicted" includes any conviction from Alabama or other states, as well as convictions based on a plea of nolo contendere, a plea of no contest, a best interests plea, or an Alford plea. These types of pleas will be treated the same as a guilty plea unless they have been expunged.

Additionally, the bill outlines the punishment structure for defendants with prior felony convictions who commit subsequent felonies, detailing the consequences based on the class of the felony committed. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-5-9
Engrossed: 13A-5-9
Enrolled: 13A-5-9