Public safety

Legislature / Public safety

House passes bill to increase penalties for eluding law enforcement

Despite strong opposition from Democrats citing systemic distrust of police, lawmakers advanced a measure making eluding officers in a vehicle a felony.

April 3, 2026

Gov. Ivey awards grants to fund statewide narcotics enforcement

In a bid to strengthen public safety, state officials directed $800,000 to help local agencies coordinate resources and apprehend drug traffickers.

March 31, 2026

AG issues cease-and-desist to retailers selling unlabeled kratom products

Alabama's attorney general threatened prosecution and asset seizure for businesses selling liquid supplements containing illegal kratom alkaloids unbeknownst to consumers.

March 26, 2026

Committee weighs bill to criminalize “interference with a first responder”

Proponents argued the measure addresses safety issues, while opponents warned it could limit police accountability and First Amendment rights.

March 19, 2026

Gov. Ivey signs the Devinee Rooney and John Wesley Holt Safe Streets Act

Governor Kay Ivey signed legislation Monday closing legal gaps that allowed some impaired drivers to face lighter sentences for fatal crashes than injuries.

March 10, 2026

SCOTUS refuses to hear case which struck down anti-panhandling laws

The high court rejected Alabama's request to overturn prior verdicts, ruling that Alabama's anti-begging laws are unconstitutional.

March 3, 2026

Montgomery’s public safety strategy shows why local governance matters

Local governments across Alabama share the same objective as state leaders: safer communities.

March 2, 2026

Alabama bill would end boat inspections without probable cause

Alabama lawmakers passed legislation Thursday prohibiting law enforcement from stopping or boarding vessels for random safety inspections without probable cause.

February 27, 2026

Committee OKs bill to allow ALEA takeover of understaffed police agencies

An Alabama Senate committee debated a bill Tuesday allowing the state to oversee major police departments if they fail to meet staffing requirements.

February 25, 2026

Montgomery officials criticize bill to allow state takeovers of understaffed police departments

“For us, allowing the state to override local officials is a bridge too far,” Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed said.

February 18, 2026