Alabama House Approves Life Sentences for Trafficking Minors
In a decisive move, the Alabama House passed a bill mandating life imprisonment for individuals convicted of trafficking minors in the state. Championed by Rep. Donna Givens, R-Loxley, the law aims to establish Alabama as the state with the strictest human trafficking penalties, replacing the current 20-year minimum sentence for first-degree trafficking with a life sentence when the victim is under 18. The bill, named the Sound of Freedom Act, after a popular 2023 film, is part of a broader push this year to strengthen penalties related to human trafficking, gaining overwhelming support from lawmakers across party lines.
Bill to Disqualify Child Sex Crime Offenders from Pardons Approved
The Alabama House also passed a bill on Tuesday that would make individuals convicted of specific child sex crimes permanently ineligible for pardons. Sponsored by Rep. Allen Treadaway, R-Morris, the legislation expands on existing provisions that bar early parole for such offenders, now ensuring they cannot receive pardons either. While the bill saw widespread approval, some Democratic legislators raised concerns about its potential impact on individuals who may have been falsely accused, urging caution in addressing wrongful convictions.
Tougher Penalties for False Police Reports Get House Approval
On the same day, the Alabama House approved a measure to increase penalties for making false police reports, particularly in cases known as ‘swatting,’ where false information leads to an emergency response. Sponsored by Rep. Philip Ensler, D-Montgomery, the bill proposes raising the charge to a Class C felony for false reports linked to a felony offense, with harsher consequences if the false report results in injury or death. The bill received near-unanimous support, highlighting the need for accountability in preventing the misuse of emergency services.