February 28, 2022 Group Watch: AL House Passes Hotly Debated Bills Affecting Law Enforcement
The Alabama House of Representatives approved a bill to repeal the state’s requirement for a permit to carry a concealed handgun. Sheriffs and police have urged lawmakers to keep the permit requirement, saying it is important tool for preventing and solving crimes. The House changed its normal rules for the day, limiting debate on two bills to two hours, after which, the gun bill passed 65-37. The very next bill was one to create mandatory jail terms for people arrested and convicted on charges of rioting. The sponsor of that bill says stronger laws are needed to stop organized efforts to cause violence at otherwise peaceful protests. This measure was also vigorously debated for approximately two hours before passing along partisan lines.
