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HB 100

Alabama Justice Information Commission; collection, dissemination, and use of biometric identifiers by certain entities provided for; Alabama Background Check Service established, types, uses, and fees for certain background checks for noncriminal justice purposes authorized; Alabama Rap Back Program established, penalties provided for; existing law relating to release of criminal history information repealed

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bryan Brinyark

Alabama establishes biometric data commission and continuous criminal history monitoring system with background check fees, raising privacy and equity concerns.

Brinyark 1st Substitute Offered
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Bill Summary · HB 100

Legislative bill overview

HB 100 establishes the Alabama Justice Information Commission to oversee biometric identifier collection and sharing, creates the Alabama Background Check Service for non-criminal justice purposes, and implements a "Rap Back Program" that allows ongoing monitoring of individuals' criminal histories. The bill repeals existing criminal history release provisions and establishes penalties for misuse of this system.

Why is this important

This legislation creates infrastructure for large-scale biometric data collection and sharing across state agencies and potentially private entities, while establishing mechanisms for continuous criminal history monitoring. The system will affect employment screening, licensing, and other civilian background check processes that impact millions of Alabamians seeking jobs, housing, and professional credentials.

Potential points of contention

  • Biometric privacy and data security: Centralized collection of fingerprints, facial recognition, and other identifiers raises concerns about data breaches, unauthorized access, and long-term privacy implications
  • Scope of "Rap Back" monitoring: Continuous criminal history tracking could disproportionately affect individuals with prior records seeking rehabilitation and employment, and clarity is needed on who accesses this ongoing data
  • Fee structure and equity: Background check fees for non-criminal justice purposes may create barriers for low-income individuals applying for jobs or housing, potentially perpetuating inequality
  • Lack of transparency on commission authority: The bill's specifics on the Justice Information Commission's composition, oversight, and accountability mechanisms are not detailed in this summary

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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