HB561 Alabama 2011 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Kurt Wallace

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2011

Title

Gambling devices, possession, penalty increased, Sec. 13A-12-27 am'd.

Summary

HB561 would make possession of a gambling device a Class C felony instead of a Class A misdemeanor, with the change taking effect on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

What This Bill Does

It increases the penalty for possessing a gambling device from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class C felony. It covers slot machines and other gambling devices used to promote unlawful gambling. It also notes that the local-funding provision of Amendment 621 does not apply because the bill defines a crime, not a law about spending local funds.

Who It Affects

• Individuals who possess, manufacture, sell, transport, place, or otherwise engage with gambling devices (including slot machines) would face a Class C felony if convicted.
• Law enforcement, prosecutors, and the courts would enforce and adjudicate the stricter penalties for gambling device offenses.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 13A-12-27 to make possession of a gambling device a Class C felony (instead of Class A misdemeanor).
• Defines possession of a gambling device to include slot machines and other devices intended for unlawful gambling activity.
• Provides that the change is exempt from Amendment 621 local-funding requirements because it amends the crime definition.
• States the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after its passage and governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Crimes and Offenses