The bill amends Section 13A-7-4.3 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to further define and expand the scope of what constitutes a "critical infrastructure facility" and to enhance penalties for unauthorized entry into such facilities. The definition of critical infrastructure is broadened to include systems or assets vital to the United States, where their incapacity or destruction would significantly impact national security, economic security, public health, or safety. The bill specifies various types of facilities that fall under this category, including chemical, polymer, or rubber manufacturing facilities, pipelines, refineries, electrical power generating facilities, and many others, with new additions such as polymer and rubber manufacturing facilities, electrical communication equipment, public water systems, and wireless telecommunications infrastructure, among others.

The bill outlines the crime of unauthorized entry of a critical infrastructure facility, detailing the conditions under which entry is considered unauthorized, such as entering without authority, using fraudulent identification, or remaining on the premises after being forbidden. It also specifies the penalties for unauthorized entry, which is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, and escalates to a Class C felony if the unauthorized entry results in damage to the facility or interruption of its operations, or if the person is in possession of an unmanned aircraft system with an attached weapon. The bill includes clauses to ensure that it does not impede lawful assembly or petition for grievances, including labor disputes, and clarifies that it does not prohibit lawful actions by the state, counties, or municipalities on their rights-of-way. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-7-4
Engrossed: 13A-7-4
Enrolled: 13A-7-4