The Alabama House and Senate have given final passage to legislation prohibiting law enforcement officers from stopping or boarding vessels for safety or marine sanitation equipment inspections without probable cause.

HB254, sponsored by State Rep. Shane Stringer (R-Citronelle) and carried in the Senate by Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine), extends to Alabama waterways the same standard that applies to vehicle stops on public roadways.

“The intent of this bill is to protect the constitutional rights of boaters who are randomly singled out for inspections without probable cause while, at the same time, providing law enforcement officers with clear and consistent standards to follow,” Stringer said.

“Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch was instrumental in working with me on this legislation, and he understands the importance of protecting the rights of the citizens we both swore an oath to serve.”

Stringer, a career law enforcement officer, said the legislation simply applies an existing legal standard to a new context.

Elliott said random inspections have long been a source of frustration for his constituents on the water.

“When a family is boating to a restaurant or simply enjoying the waters in our area, they should not have to worry about being stopped, boarded, and delayed for no real reason beyond a random inspection,” Elliott said.

“Just like Rep. Stringer, I strongly support our officers and the work they do to protect our communities, but I have a duty to protect my constituents from easily avoidable annoyances and inconveniences.”

HB254 now heads to Governor Kay Ivey for signature. If enacted, the law takes effect June 1, 2026.

Sawyer Knowles is a capitol reporter for Yellowhammer News. You may contact him at [email protected].