A pre-filed bill in the Alabama House received the endorsement of the National Police Association, the group announced this week. The bill, introduced by State Rep. Chris England (D-Tuscaloosa), makes failing to disclose knowledge about a concealed weapon when an officer asks a Class A misdemeanor. Additionally, the crime is punishable by a maximum of one-year imprisonment and a fine of $6,000 dollars.
“Alabama HB 58 helps reduce the uncertainty associated with police-civilian encounters and helps to prevent them from becoming emergencies,” said Paula Fitzsimmons, Legislative Director of the National Police Association. “It’s a fair bill that takes into consideration the safety of law enforcement officers and members of the public while protecting individual Second Amendment rights.”
The surge in shootings, assaults, and ambush-style attacks on officers across the country in recent years has caused law enforcement to become even more vigilant of their environment.
Under current Alabama law, an individual is already obligated to answer truthfully when an officer inquires about firearm possession. Because there is no penalty attached, the law is essentially unenforceable. Alabama HB58 amends the current law by establishing a criminal penalty.
According to the NPA, the passage of the bill would be beneficial for the following reasons:
“Enhanced Officer Safety: Officers would have a legal safeguard when interacting with individuals who may be armed, ensuring they are aware of concealed weapons early during encounters. Clarity of Communication: By requiring individuals to inform officers of concealed firearms, when asked, it reduces the potential for misunderstandings, which could escalate the encounter. Accountability: The criminal penalty acts as a deterrent for individuals attempting to withhold critical information from officers, promoting better compliance and transparency during traffic stops or other interactions.”
HB58 has been pre-filed for consideration in February of 2025. If passed, it would go into effect in October of that same year.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
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