Alabamians can now carry a concealed firearm without a permit. The act is being referred to throughout the state as the “constitutional carry” bill.
Under the new law, the only reason that anyone in the state would have to have a permit is so that they can conceal carry across state lines. The new legislation also states that drivers who have been pulled over and have a firearm in their vehicle are required to inform the police of it. They are also not allowed to touch the weapon when the officer or officers are present. An officer can temporarily take a weapon away in certain conditions. One such condition is if the officer has reasonable suspicion that a crime has taken place.
Gov. Kay Ivey, as provided for in the legislation, will now establish a database that will help police across the state determine if people should own weapons.
“Really what this does, this database gives us the ability to figure out who are the people that need to have the guns, and then who are the individuals that shouldn’t have them,” ALEA Sgt. Jeremy Burkett said.
The new law has been met with mixed reviews.
Ivey believes the new law is a win for gun rights and responsible gun owners in Alabama.
“Unlike states who are doing everything in their power to make it harder for law-abiding citizens, Alabama is reaffirming our commitment to defending our Second Amendment rights,” she said. “I have always stood up for the rights of law-abiding gun owners, and I am proud to do that again today.”
State Rep. Phillip Ensler (D-Montgomery) opposes the law.
He posted a tweet at the end of December that said, “Law enforcement pleaded with the legislature and governor not to enact it as they worry it will put officers at greater risk and lead to even more loss of innocent lives.”
“Our community is already heartbroken and traumatized from gun deaths — especially of our precious children. But some politicians put politics over the safety and lives of our children and officers.”
Alabama is one of 25 states with similar legislation.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
