The Alabama House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation Thursday that would make the state’s authority to conduct wiretaps in drug-related investigation permanent, removing a sunset provision from a 2022 law. 

HB137, sponsored by State Rep. Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville) extends a provision that allows the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) to monitor electronic communications of individuals suspected of certain felony drug offenses, including trafficking, distribution and manufacturing. The law was originally set to expire, but under the new bill, it would remain in effect indefinitely.

Under the legislation, wiretaps would still require approval from both the Alabama Attorney General and a circuit court judge before being executed. Law enforcement officials say the measure is crucial in combating large-scale drug operations and dismantling criminal networks operating within the state.

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Since the law was enacted in 2022, Reynolds said, wiretaps have led to 10 search warrants and resulted in the confiscation of 2,500 grams of fentanyl, 12,000 grams of cocaine, 100,000 grams of marijuana, 37 firearms, 10 vehicles and more than $230,000 in cash. The surveillance efforts have also led to 19 arrests.

While the bill received unanimous approval, some lawmakers voiced concerns about making the provision permanent without a set date for future legislative review. State Rep. Thomas Jackson (D-Thomasville) acknowledged the effectiveness of the wiretap program but questioned whether the legislature should periodically reassess the law’s impact. Despite his concerns, Jackson ultimately voted in favor of the bill.

Grace Heim is a state and political reporter for Yellowhammer News. You can follow her on X @graceeheim or email her at [email protected].