Alabama House passes bill expanding legal immunity for law enforcement officers despite Democratic opposition.
On Thursday, the Alabama House passed HB202, sponsored by State Rep. Rex Reynolds, R-Hazel Green, which aims to increase legal protections for law enforcement officers. The bill would make it more difficult to sue or prosecute officers unless their conduct is overtly reckless or unconstitutional. Reynolds, a former police chief, explained that the bill sets higher legal standards for bringing charges against officers and allows early dismissal if an officer was acting within their discretionary authority.
The bill, part of Gov. Kay Ivey’s “Safe Alabama” package, received bipartisan support except from House Democrats who opposed it, arguing that it reduces accountability for law enforcement. Despite Democratic objections, the bill passed along party lines and now moves to the Senate.
Democrats expressed concern that the bill would make it harder to hold officers accountable for misconduct. Rep. Chris England highlighted three cases in the past decade where officers were indicted for killing civilians, expressing concern that the bill would further reduce accountability.
In defense of the bill, Reynolds argued that the enhanced legal protections were needed to recruit and retain officers amidst widespread shortages. The substitute bill, along with the original, passed with 56 cosponsors, receiving applause from House Republicans.
The passage of the bill was not without tension, with Democrats objecting to being denied the opportunity to discuss the proposed calendar of bills. Despite the heated exchange between House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and Rep. Thomas Jackson, the bill ultimately passed, and the Legislature is now adjourned for spring break until March 17.
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