The bill amends Section 13A-7-41 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to redefine the crime of arson in the first degree by establishing alternative means for committing the offense. The new language specifies that a person commits arson in the first degree if they intentionally damage a building by starting or maintaining a fire or causing an explosion while another person is present in the building. The bill introduces two conditions under which this crime can occur: either the actor knows that another person is present, or the fire or explosion is initiated in conjunction with a theft that results in damages of $25,000 or more.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that arson in the first degree is classified as a Class A felony, with a minimum punishment of 20 years of imprisonment. This term of imprisonment is to run consecutively with any other sentences arising from the same circumstances. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026. The amendments include the insertion of new language regarding the presence of another person and the conditions for theft-related arson, while deleting previous language that was less specific about the presence of individuals in the building at the time of the offense.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-7-41, 13A-7-41
Engrossed: 13A-7-41, 13A-7-41