WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 412

Crimes and offenses, unauthorized entry of a critical infrastructure facility and criminal tampering in the first degree further provided for

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Shane Stringer

Alabama bill criminalizes unauthorized critical infrastructure facility entry and heightens first-degree tampering penalties to protect essential public services from sabotage and disruption.

Currently Indefinitely Postponed
#crimes&offenses
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 412

Legislative bill overview

HB 412 creates new criminal penalties for unauthorized entry into critical infrastructure facilities and enhances penalties for criminal tampering in the first degree in Alabama. The bill defines what constitutes critical infrastructure and establishes specific offenses related to accessing or damaging such facilities without authorization.

Why is this important

Critical infrastructure—including power plants, water systems, telecommunications networks, and transportation hubs—are essential to public safety and economic function. Strengthening criminal penalties aims to deter sabotage, terrorism, or negligent interference that could endanger lives or disrupt essential services across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: The breadth of what qualifies as "critical infrastructure" could be overly broad or raise concerns about restricting legitimate access to facilities, including for purposes like maintenance, security research, or protest activities
  • Penalty proportionality: Critics may argue the enhanced criminal penalties are excessive compared to actual harm caused, particularly if they apply to minor trespassing cases
  • Vagueness concerns: Terms like "unauthorized entry" may lack sufficient clarity regarding what constitutes permission, creating enforcement inconsistencies and potential constitutional challenges

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

Sign in to ask a question.