WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 115

Relating to: Department of Justice collection and reporting of certain criminal case data. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Julian Bradley and 5 co-sponsors

Senate Bill 115 classifies impersonating a peace officer as a Class C felony, enhancing public safety by deterring unlawful representation of law enforcement in Alabama.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 115

Summary of Senate Bill 115: Impersonating a Peace Officer

Bill Number: SB 115
Title: Crimes and offenses, impersonating a peace officer further provided for
Status: Enacted
Introduced: February 5, 2025
Effective Date: October 1, 2025
Sponsor: Senator Clyde Chambliss
Committee: Judiciary

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 115 aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding the crime of impersonating a peace officer in Alabama. The bill expands the definition of this crime to include additional activities that constitute impersonation, thereby enhancing public safety and accountability among individuals who may unlawfully represent themselves as law enforcement officials.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Section 13A-10-11 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to include the following provisions:

  1. Expanded Definition of Impersonation:

    • A person commits the crime of impersonating a peace officer if they:
      • Falsely Pretend to be a peace officer and perform any act in that capacity.
      • Accept Employment or Appointment as a peace officer while knowing:
      • They are not eligible to serve as a peace officer under Alabama law.
      • Their certification with the Alabama Peace Officers' Standards and Training Commission has been revoked or suspended.
      • Facilitate Employment of another individual as a peace officer when they know that person is prohibited from serving.

  2. Classification of Offense:

    • Impersonating a peace officer is classified as a Class C felony.

  3. Definition of Peace Officer:

    • The term "peace officer" includes any federal officer or employee with a duty to maintain public order or make arrests, regardless of the scope of their authority.

Impact

  • Legal and Financial Implications:

    • The enactment of SB 115 may lead to an increase in fines collected by the State General Fund, as well as additional receipts for county general funds and other funds related to court costs.
    • The financial obligations of the State General Fund, district attorneys, the Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, the Department of Corrections, and community corrections programs may also increase, depending on the number of individuals charged and convicted under the new provisions.

  • Affected Parties:

    • This legislation primarily affects individuals who may attempt to impersonate peace officers, as well as law enforcement agencies and the judicial system that will enforce these new provisions.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 5, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee.
  • March 6, 2025: Passed the Senate and sent to the House.
  • March 18, 2025: Delivered to the Governor for signature.
  • March 24, 2025: Enacted into law.

Senate Bill 115 represents a significant step in addressing the issue of impersonation of law enforcement officials, aiming to deter such actions and enhance the integrity of peace officer roles in Alabama.

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

Sign in to ask a question.